The Ijebu Boys Association (IJBOYS), a leading non-profit, philanthropic and socio-cultural organisation committed to the sustainable development of Ijebuland, marked its 10th Anniversary with a week-long celebration featuring humanitarian interventions, cultural preservation initiatives and community development projects.
The anniversary, themed ‘A Decade of Impact, A Future of Legacies’, was held from 22 to 27 May 2026, and reflected the association’s enduring commitment to improving lives across Ijebuland.
The highlight of the celebration was a two-day Free Medical Outreach in Ijebu-Ode, where more than 2,000 residents received free medical consultations, treatment and medications for malaria, hypertension, rheumatism, Hepatitis B and C, dental and eye conditions, as well as maternal healthcare services. The outreach also provided free wheelchairs, walking aids, and protein-rich meals to patients.
The medical intervention extended to Ijebu-Igbo, where selected beneficiaries were enrolled in a one-year health insurance scheme, granting them access to healthcare services at designated hospitals across Ogun State.
Speaking on the anniversary activities, the President of the Association, Barrister Olukayode Okenla, reaffirmed the group’s commitment to improving the well-being of the people through sustainable community-based interventions.
As part of efforts to preserve the rich cultural heritage of Ijebuland, the association, in partnership with Alare FM, organised the second edition of the Ijebu Dialect Debate Competition for secondary schools across the six local government areas of Ijebuland. According to Barrister Okenla, the competition was designed to promote Ijebu linguistic heritage, entrench the Ijebu dialect among younger generations and ensure the language remains a source of pride and identity rather than fading into extinction.
The association also supported the 2026 Agemo Festival with financial assistance and the donation of refreshments, in response to a request from the body of Alagemos. The gesture formed part of its broader commitment to preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of Ijebuland.
The anniversary celebrations climaxed with a colourful Gala and Awards Night held at the Association’s Secretariat and Lounge on Ojushagbola Avenue, GRA, Ijebu-Ode. The event attracted distinguished sons and daughters of Ijebuland, business leaders, professionals and community stakeholders.
A major highlight of the evening was the unveiling of the Association’s official anthem. The occasion also honoured members who have made remarkable contributions to the growth of the organisation. Among those recognised were the Association’s pioneer President, Omoba Adebayo Okenla, immediate past President, Mr. Olagbuyi Oduniyi, the current Vice President Otunba Niyi Awonaike, the indefatigable Treasurer Omoba Oluseye Olusoga, and the Publicity Secretary, Omoba Adetola Odusote, who received a special diadem for composing the winning lyrics of the Association’s anthem. Several other members were equally honoured for their dedication and outstanding service.
In continuation of its community advocacy initiatives, IJBOYS partnered with the Ijebu Division Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) on 26 June, 2026, to commemorate the United Nations Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. The association donated campaign materials and joined the agency in sensitising young people on the dangers of drug abuse and the importance of living drug-free.
Founded on 10 December, 2016, by a group of childhood friends following the passing of two of their close associates, the late Bolaji Osinowo and Taiwo Bello, the Ijebu Boys Association began with fewer than ten members. Today, it has grown into a respected organisation of over 60 accomplished professionals united by a shared vision of giving back to society.
Over the past decade, the association has implemented numerous humanitarian initiatives, including support for widows and bereaved families, COVID-19 relief programmes, educational interventions, cultural promotion and its flagship Annual Free Medical Outreach, which has now been sustained for eight consecutive years. Beyond healthcare, IJBOYS has expanded its developmental footprint through economic empowerment programmes, trade fairs, civic infrastructure projects and youth-focused initiatives that continue to stimulate social and economic progress within Ijebuland.
Its 2025 Convention Gala Night, which featured renowned Fuji icon K1 De Ultimate, further elevated the association’s profile as a platform that successfully combines philanthropy, cultural promotion and community development. As it enters its second decade, the Ijebu Boys Association remains steadfast in its mission of creating lasting social impact, preserving the rich heritage of Ijebuland, and building a legacy of service for generations to come.
