Alhaji Olawale Abiodun Lawal Abinugbola Installed as Oluomo of Ijebu Igbo

The Orimolusi Palace in Ijebu Igbo, Ogun State, came alive with pageantry and tradition on February 5, 2026, as His Royal Majesty, Oba Lawrence Jayeoba Adebajo, the Orimolusi of Ijebu Igbo, installed Alhaji Olawale Abiodun Lawal Abinugbola as the Oluomo of Ijebu Igbo.

The prestigious title recognises a distinguished son of the soil whose life and work embody service, enterprise, and unwavering commitment to his community.

The installation ceremony was a vibrant celebration of Yoruba heritage, drawing traditional rulers, dignitaries, community leaders, youth groups, and well-wishers from across the region. Amid resounding drumbeats, royal blessings, and colourful traditional attire, the atmosphere reflected the deep respect and admiration for Alhaji Abinugbola’s enduring impact on Ijebu Igbo.

A self-made leader in Nigeria’s hides and skins industry, Alhaji Abinugbola transformed a largely informal sector through innovation and scale. By pioneering direct container imports, he now controls an estimated 60 percent of the national market. His structured business model—featuring modern offices, warehouses, and professional staffing—has repositioned Ijebu Igbo as a national commercial hub and inspired over 100 locals to participate in large-scale trade. Notably, his success has also drawn educated young people back to the town to build viable careers rooted in their heritage.

Beyond business, his philanthropic footprint is equally significant. Through the Abinugbola Foundation, which he solely funds, over 1,500 people are fed daily during the holy month of Ramadan, while approximately ₦150 million is disbursed annually to support small and medium-scale enterprises and petty traders. Plans are also underway for a world-class vocational training centre that will offer free skills training and starter equipment, reinforcing his belief that opportunity—not poverty—should shape the future of Ijebu Igbo’s youth.

The conferment of the Oluomo title honours Alhaji Abinugbola’s role as a mentor and inspiration to young people across Ijebu Igbo, Ogun State, and Nigeria, particularly his example of tenacity, integrity, and community-first leadership.

The celebration continued with music and dance as Alhaji Abinugbola, flanked by family, friends, and notable guests including Nollywood personalities, joined in the festivities. Legendary Fuji icon Wasiu Ayinde Kwam1 (K1 De Ultimate) headlined the musical performances, alongside other leading Fuji artistes, while culturally rich Apala renditions by Alhaji Musiliu Ishola paid tribute to the honouree’s business acumen and lifelong dedication to his people.

February 5, 2026, will be remembered as a day of pride, unity, and renewed hope for the people of Ijebu Igbo.