Diaspora Desk

Eko Club International: Saheed Olushi Emerges New President As Lanre Ojo Bows Out With Ovation

Published

3 years ago

Nov 9, 2021.

Eko Club International to Hold 12th Biennial Convention

On October 30, 2021, the 12th Biennial Conference of Eko Club International (ECI) ended with a peaceful election to determine the next batch of leaders who would steer the group’s goals and aspirations into the future.

Since its inception, Eko Club International (ECI) has had six presidents alongside other cabinet members who have worked assiduously to grow from strength to strength.

The election held on Saturday, October 30th, had three delegates from each member chapter and was conducted with utmost transparency.

Hon. Dr. Lanre Ojo ECI President Emeritus 2017 – 2021

The Organisation, once again executed the customary ritual of deciding who would steer its lofty goals and objectives for the next four years.

The election was in many ways an exemplar of the free, transparent and peaceful political process that has been sadly lacking in Nigeria’s mainstream politics.

Devoid of any underhanded, desperate political manoeuvring or calculated demagoguery, the process adopted the principles of unity and cohesiveness to achieve a greater good, not scoring any political points.

Hon. Chief Saheed Olushi ECI President 2021-

In his speech, Lanre Ojo, the outgoing president did express gratification that the state of the organisation is stronger and more robust than when his administration took over the reins of power.

He also commended the stellar performance of the electoral committee for conducting a peaceful election.

The outgoing President appreciated the support and loyalty of the members which he credited as being largely instrumental to the success of the administration.

Hon. Engr. Olajide B. Danmola ECI Vice President

He admonished the members and the incoming executive to continue promoting the core values of the organisation that was outlined by it’s founding fathers when the imagination and ideas of several visionaries gave birth to the club more than two decades ago.

“If you make accountability and transparency the cornerstone of your administration, you will enjoy undiluted support and followership from your members,” he said.

Hon. Dr.. Lola Ogbara-Alogba, ECI General Secretary

“Members will not follow a leader they don’t trust, and neither will they follow a leader that does not navigate the road to success.’

“If it’s your way or no way, you cannot be a successful leader.”

“You might have good administrative skills, good oratory skills, but if you don’t have good people skills, you will find it difficult to rally them behind a common purpose.”

“In the next few minutes, my term as your President will end, and I will be sitting with you members, but I am confident I am leaving on a high note knowing the club is a good shape and with the conviction that the best of the organisation is yet to come.”

“Thanks for the opportunity, and God Bless you all.”

Hon. Bukola Adebiyi ECI Social Secretary 2019 –

Mr Saheed Olushi, in his opening address, pledged to consolidate on the accomplishments of his predecessors.

He promised to align his vision with the fundamental and core values of the organisation.

The new president also appreciated the members for their selfless contributions towards the group’s humanitarian projects despite the economic difficulty occasioned by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Hon. Yinka Thanni ECI Financial Secretary 2021 –

He noted that his administration would double down on the organisation’s quest to create meaningful and sustainable impact in the lives of Lagosians through outreach programmes, advocacy and strong synergy with the State government and its institutions.

Mr Saheed further pledged to discharge his responsibilities in tandem with the constitution of Eko Club International (ECI).

Attorney OJ Lawal, during the swearing-in ceremony, reminded the new executives of the covenant with the members that must not be taken with levity.

The success of your administration will be predicated on the support of the members, he concluded.