Otunba Oriade: Celebrating A Distinguished, Endowed Ijebu Icon @ 50

In keeping with the cherished Ijebu tradition of honouring its most illustrious sons and daughters, Otunba Ayodele Adedayo Osisanya, fondly known by his traditional title Otunba Oriade stands tall. As the Asiwaju of Egbe Bobayegun Okunrin Akile-Ijebu, his influence and contributions to the Ijebu community are both profound and inspiring. His leadership within the cultural, professional, and social spheres is widely acknowledged and deeply respected.

The Issues Magazine and its YouTube TV channel captured the colourful and extravagant celebration of his 50th birthday, which began with a thanksgiving service at Our Saviour Anglican Church, Italowajoda, Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State. The festivities later continued at A5 Event Centre, GRA Ijebu-Ode, where dignitaries, friends, and family gathered in his honour.

During the church service, Rt. Rev. Rotimi Oludipe, the Diocesan Bishop, Ijebu Anglican Diocese delivered a moving sermon, urging the congregation to always give thanks to God. He reminded everyone of the human heart’s tireless work beating without rest as a symbol of divine grace, and especially worth acknowledging on such significant occasions as a milestone birthday.

The Issues Magazine and YouTube TV show reports that the celebration was not just a social gathering but a testament to Otunba Osisanya’s character, leadership, and the esteem in which he is held by both peers and elders. His standing in the Ijebu sociocultural landscape and corporate world remains unmatched.

Born on May 30, 1975, Otunba Osisanya is a proud son of Ijebu-Ode, from the Oshijirin family of Idepo Quarters and the notable Ekisola family of Imupa. He began his early education at St. Anthony Nursery and Primary School and Wasimi African Church School before proceeding to Odua Comprehensive High School. A bright student, he represented his schools in academic competitions across Ijebu-Ode and Ogun State.

He went on to earn a National Diploma from Ogun State Polytechnic (now Moshood Abiola Polytechnic) and a Higher National Diploma from The Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro. Seeking greater knowledge, he furthered his education in the United States, obtaining diplomas in General Management from North Hennepin Community College in Minnesota and in Financial Management from the Community College of the U.S. Air Force, Maxwell AFB, Alabama. He also earned a bachelor’s degree in Accounting and Business Management from Metropolitan State University, Minnesota, and holds several prestigious professional certifications in finance and cybersecurity.

Otunba Osisanya's career spans more than two decades, with experience in both Nigeria and the United States. He began as a youth corps member at the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing in Lafia, Nasarawa State, where his exemplary service earned him commendation. In the U.S., he worked with Carebrek in Minnesota before enlisting in the United States Army, completing his training at Fort Jackson, South Carolina, and the U.S. Army School of Logistics in Fort Lee, Virginia. As a Logistical Specialist with the 34th Infantry Battalion, he oversaw arms and ammunition management and supported numerous deployments.

Driven by versatility and ambition, he later transitioned to the United States Air Force, where he served in crucial financial roles, including as a Military Pay Specialist and Financial Services Officer at both the 934th Airlift Wing in Minneapolis and the 147th Attack Wing in Houston, Texas. He now serves with the United States Department of the Treasury, Internal Revenue Service, as a Tax Accountant in the Accounts Management Division, overseeing complex individual tax cases.

Despite his many professional achievements, Otunba Osisanya remains firmly rooted in his cultural heritage and community service. He holds numerous traditional titles, including Asiwaju Egbe Bobamayegun Okunrin Akile Ijebu, Akeweje Egbe Obaneye Okunrin Akile Ijebu, and Baba Egbe Egbe Bobasete Okunrin Akile Ijebu. He is a proud member of the prestigious Ijebu Ode Club, a past president and active member of the Ijebu Ode Lions Club, and the Otunba Oriade of Ijebu-Ife under the esteemed leadership of His Royal Majesty, Oba Adesesan Afolorunso Oguntayo, FCA – The Ajalorun of Ijebu-Ife.

Otunba Ayodele Adedayo Osisanya is a devoted family man, happily married and blessed with beautiful children. Known for his humility, intellect, and unwavering dedication to community development, he continues to serve as a beacon of excellence and pride for the Ijebu people, both at home and in the diaspora.

- Oluseun ODUNEYE, Abeokuta