By Divine Sam
The Akobo Integrity Lions Club recently held a memorable investiture ceremony to install Lion Sarafadeen Toyeshe Lawal, an estate surveyor and the current General Manager of the Oyo State Housing Corporation, as the 7th president of the club. Lion Toyeshe Lawal, an accomplished professional with degrees from Yaba College of Technology, The Polytechnic Ibadan, and the University of Ibadan, is also a fellow of the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers (FNIVS) and an associate member of the Chartered Institute of Arbitration (ACArb). He is well known for his philanthropy and leadership within various Lions Clubs, including the Akobo Integrity Lions Club, where he has served in key roles such as treasurer and first vice president.
The event was graced by several distinguished personalities, including the oyo state deputy governor Barr. Bayo Lawal and other prominence captain of industries.
the chairman of the investiture committee, Lion Caleb Olubusayo Fagade, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to organize the ceremony. Fagade emphasized that the change of leadership marks a renewed commitment to the club’s humanitarian services, which serve as a beacon of hope and compassion in the community. He also welcomed the newly elected officers and urged them to uphold the club’s goals of service to humanity.
The District Governor, Lion Engr. Taiwo Oladayo Fatoki, congratulated Toyeshe Lawal and his team, stressing the importance of staying vigilant and working diligently to lay a strong foundation of service for future generations. The District Governor, who was celebrating his 35th year in Lions Clubs International, encouraged the new administration to engage in service activities such as feeding the hungry, diabetes awareness, vision care, environmental conservation, and pediatric cancer support.
In her valedictory speech, the outgoing president, Lion Adeboye Jumoke, expressed pride in the achievements of her administration, particularly the ongoing signature project—the construction of a block of classrooms at St. Davide Anglican School in Ibadan. She thanked all members who supported her leadership and distributed awards in recognition of their contributions.
The guest speaker, Dr. Ojebola Bisi, delivered an insightful talk on stress management, urging attendees to take time to rest and recharge amidst their busy lives.
other executive officers who were inaugurated includes
Lion Caleb Olubusayo – 1st Vice President Lion Omotayo – 2nd Vice President Lion Oluwole Oyelade – Secretary Lion Sayo Williams – Treasurer Lion Akinsawe Folasade – Project Director Lion Bayo Badmus – Assistant Secretary Lion Akangbe Thomas – Diaspora Coordinator Lion Adeola Adesola – Tail Twister Lion Badmus Toye – Membership Director Lion Dayo Laniyan – Marketing Director Lion Esther Okunola – Welfare Officer
In his acceptance speech, the new president, Lion Toyeshe Lawal, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to serve. He assured the community that his administration would focus on transparency, accountability, and collaboration to create a lasting positive impact. He highlighted the club’s ongoing projects, including the completion of the classroom block, and appealed for generous donations to ensure the success of these initiatives in 2024/2025.
Deputy Governor Barr. Bayo Lawal, who served as the father of the occasion, commended the leadership qualities of the incoming president. He emphasized the importance of community development and praised the Akobo Integrity Lions Club for selecting Toyeshe Lawal, who has a long history of service. Lawal stressed the mutual relationship between the government and clubs like Lions Clubs, noting that they complement government efforts in delivering essential services such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
The event was a vibrant celebration, featuring speeches, the cutting of an investiture cake, the official transition of leadership, and entertainment. The gathering marked the beginning of a new era for the Akobo Integrity Lions Club under the leadership of Lion Toyeshe Lawal.
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