The Ogun State Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (OGUNCCIMA) has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of His Royal Majesty, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, the Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, describing his death as a monumental loss to the business community and the entire nation.
In a condolence message issued on Sunday, OGUNCCIMA President, Lion Niyi Oshiyemi, said Oba Adetona was not only a revered monarch but also a pillar of progress whose reign fostered economic growth, peace, and development in Ogun State.
“Oba Adetona was a visionary royal father who believed in enterprise, self-reliance and prosperity. His support for trade, investment, and local development initiatives stood out throughout his reign,” Oshiyemi said.
He noted that under the monarch’s reign, Ijebuland became a fertile ground for business and cultural tourism, especially with the evolution of the globally celebrated Ojude Oba festival, which boosted local commerce and hospitality in the state.
OGUNCCIMA described the late Awujale as a stabilising force whose wisdom and leadership created an enabling environment for private sector participation in the state’s development agenda.
“As a Chamber, we benefitted from Kabiyesi’s open-door approach and fatherly encouragement towards our advocacy for industrial growth. His contributions to the progress of Ogun State’s economic ecosystem will remain unforgettable,” Oshiyemi added.
The Chamber extended its condolences to the royal family, the Ijebu traditional council, the people of Ijebuland, and the government of Ogun State, praying for strength and comfort for all who mourn.
“Oba Adetona lived an impactful life of service. At 91, he leaves behind a rich legacy of honour, integrity, and progress. We pray that his noble soul finds eternal rest,” the statement concluded.
Oba Adetona, who ascended the throne in 1960 at the age of 26, reigned for over 65 years, becoming Nigeria’s longest-serving monarch. He passed on July 13, 2025.
