Traditional ruler Professor Adeyemi Obalanlege honoured by members of the prestigious Lagos club during a cultural and goodwill visit
His Majesty, Professor Adeyemi Obalanlege, Ph.D. (Lanlege Ekun II, Arole Iganmode, Olofin Apesin Olode), the Olota of the Ancient and Paramount Ottaland, Awori Kingdom, was accorded a grand reception by members of the prestigious Yoruba Tennis Club during a royal visit held on Thursday, July 9, 2026.
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The visit, which celebrated Yoruba culture, traditional leadership and community service, began at the residence of the Chairman of the Club’s Board of Trustees, Alhaji Dr. Lateef Olufemi Okunnu, SAN, CON, where the monarch received a warm welcome before proceeding to the club’s premises for the formal reception.
Addressing guests, Dr. Okunnu praised the monarch’s leadership, describing Professor Obalanlege as an outstanding custodian of Yoruba tradition whose reign has continued to enhance the prestige of the ancient Olota stool.
Dr. Okunnu also reflected on the enduring contributions of previous Olotas, particularly His Royal Majesty Oba T. T. Dada, to the development of Yorubaland, while commending the current monarch for preserving and strengthening those enduring legacies.
He urged the royal father to remain steadfast in promoting the cultural identity of the Yoruba people and supporting the continued growth of Nigeria’s traditional institutions.
The Chairman of the Yoruba Tennis Club, Engr. Olawumi Gasper, formally received the Olota and members of the royal entourage, describing the occasion as an opportunity to celebrate exemplary traditional leadership and reinforce the enduring relationship between the club and Yoruba heritage.
The event was marked by traditional courtesies, cultural exchanges and warm fellowship as members of the club welcomed the monarch with admiration and goodwill.
Several eminent personalities from the Awori Kingdom and beyond attended the colourful gathering, adding significance to the royal engagement.
Among those who accompanied the Olota were His Royal Majesty Oba Ademola Eletu Ashorota, the Onitele of Itele-Otta, Awori Kingdom; High Chief Ganiyu Dada, the Oluwo Itoki of Otta; High Chief Adedayo Akindele Eleku, the Lisa of Otta; High Chief Olakunle Muftau Salako, the Bashorun of Otta; Aare Ayodele Bankole, the Otun Maiyegun of Otta; Aare Rotimi Ishola, the Aare Bobajiro of Otta; Aremo CP Bola Ojugbele, Commissioner of Police, Alagbon, Lagos; and Hon. Jimoh Ojugbele, the All Progressives Congress candidate for Ogun West Senatorial District.
The reception provided an opportunity for interaction between the monarch and members of the club, with participants reaffirming their shared commitment to preserving Yoruba customs, promoting unity and supporting community development.
Speaking during the gathering, Dr. Okunnu said, “Kabiyesi has continued to elevate the dignity of the ancient Olota stool through exemplary leadership and an unwavering commitment to preserving the rich cultural heritage of the Yoruba people.”
The visit also highlighted the growing role of traditional institutions in fostering cultural preservation and social cohesion, particularly at a time when many communities are seeking to strengthen indigenous values while embracing modern development.
Founded as one of Nigeria’s foremost socio-cultural organisations, the Yoruba Tennis Club has long served as a meeting point for professionals, traditional rulers and community leaders committed to promoting Yoruba history, culture and intellectual engagement.
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For Professor Obalanlege, whose reign has focused on community development, education and cultural renaissance, the reception reflected the esteem in which the Olota stool continues to be held across Yorubaland.
Victory Emmanuel is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, business, and public affairs.
