Double Celebrations As Aare Adebanjo Safiriyu, Wife Receive Prestigious Islamic Titles In Ogun

It was a day of double celebration for the illustrious oil magnate and proud son of Ago-Iwoye, Alhaji Safiriyu Kazeem Adebanjo, and his graceful wife, Alhaja Medinah Kazeem, as they were conferred with prestigious Islamic titles in Ogun State.

Alhaji Safiriyu Adebanjo was installed as the Aare Musulumi of Idode, Aare Musulumi of Ago-Iwoye, and Balogun Adinni of Ogun State, while his wife, Alhaja Medinah, was honoured as the Iya Adinni of Ago-Iwoye and Balogun Adinni Obinrin of Ogun State.

The event, described by The Issues Magazine and YouTube TV Shows as a historic three-in-one ceremony, was held at Wosam Event and Hall in Ago-Iwoye. The grand occasion drew a host of Islamic scholars, captains of industry, and distinguished sons and daughters of Ijebuland.

Prominent guests included the Asiwaju of Ijebuland and Chairman of the Day, Asiwaju Adebola Adegunwa; the Orimolusi of Ijebu-Igbo, Oba Lawrence Adebajo; the host monarch Ebumawe of Ago-Iwoye, Oba Razaq Adenugba; the Limeri of Awa, Oba Awobajo; the Saderiren of Isonyin, Prince Feyisayo Soyewo; Major Gen. S.A. Awosanya (rtd); the Baba Oba of Ago-Iwoye, Amb. Sarafa Ishola; Senator Lekan Mustapha; Chief Alex Onabanjo; Hon. Adesegun Adekoya; Hon. Joseph Adegbesan and Hon. Tele Ogunjobi, members of Ijebu-Ode Club among others.

In his acceptance speech, Alhaji Safiriyu Adebanjo described the titles as both a divine responsibility and a source of spiritual elevation:

“This is a remarkable and spiritually uplifting occasion that fills my heart with immense joy, deep humility, and a renewed sense of duty toward the cause of Islam and service to humanity.

I accept these honours with heartfelt gratitude, viewing them not merely as recognition, but as a divine call to further dedicate myself to the spiritual, educational, social, and economic advancement of Islam."

Hon. Tele Ogunjobi, Chairman of the Turbaning Committee, praised Alhaji Adebanjo as a man of uncommon grace and foresight:

“Aare Safiriyu Adebanjo Kazeem is the embodiment of discipline, faith, and leadership. Through SAF Petroleum, he has greatly impacted economic development not only in Ago-Iwoye but across Ogun State and Nigeria. His charitable works; from Ramadan feeding programs and mosque renovations to empowering widows and sponsoring Islamic education speak volumes about his quiet philanthropy and unwavering devotion.

"His installation as the first Balogun Musulumi of Ogun State signifies not just celebration but commissioning; he is now a vanguard of Islam.

“The eyes of many are upon him. The youth look up to him. The elders place their hopes in him, and the heavens record his every step. May Allah (SWT) grant him the strength and wisdom to lead effectively and benefit Islam and humanity.”

Senator Lekan Mustapha in his message also described the celebrant as a visionary philanthropist and devout Muslim.

“Alhaji Adebanjo is not just a successful oil magnate but a pillar of faith and service. His numerous contributions to Islamic causes, education, and the upliftment of the less privileged align with the teachings of the Qur’an. His new role is both a reward for past deeds and a call to even greater service.”

Also paying tribute, former Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Alhaji Suraju Adekunbi, highlighted Alhaji Adebanjo’s inspiring business journey:

“From his early days at Unipetroleum, through his time at Oando and MRS, to founding SAF Petroleum Nigeria Ltd, Alhaji Adebanjo has shown remarkable resilience and vision. His leadership has improved energy access and boosted economic activities in underserved areas. His commitment to Islam, unity, and community empowerment is evident in every stride.”

The colourful celebration concluded at Alhaji Adebanjo’s residence in Ago-Iwoye, where guests were treated to top-tier entertainment by two renowned music acts, marking the perfect end to a truly memorable occasion.

- Oluseun ODUNEYE, Abeokuta