The Ibadan Zone Shareholders' Association has ushered in a new era of leadership with the election of Mr Gilbert Ayoola as its eighth Chairman during the organization's combined 31st–33rd Annual General Meeting held in Ibadan on Thursday, November 23, 2025.
New Leadership Team Takes Charge
Mr Ayoola, who previously served as the association's General Secretary, now leads the executive committee responsible for overseeing shareholder interests across six southwestern states: Ekiti, Kwara, Ogun, Ondo, Osun and Oyo States. The newly elected leadership team includes Dr Olabisi Odebunmi as First Vice-Chairman, Ven. Nelson Fadoju as Second Vice-Chairman, Mr Benjamin Ogunwale as General Secretary, Alhaji Oyebamiji Soladoye as Treasurer, and Mr Oluwole Makinde as Financial Secretary.
The AGM also witnessed the investiture of new patrons and a matron for the association: Mr Sola Oluwanuga, Mr Oladipo Oladipo, Mrs Morenike Omilabu and outgoing chairman Mr Eric Akinduro, who now assumes a patron role.
Vision for Enhanced Shareholder Advocacy
In his acceptance speech, Ayoola expressed profound gratitude to members while outlining his clear vision for the association's future direction. "I stand before you with profound gratitude and a deep sense of responsibility as I accept the honour of serving as the 8th Chairman of the Ibadan Zone Shareholders' Association," he stated.
The new chairman pledged to strengthen transparency, corporate governance advocacy, and the protection of minority shareholders' rights. He announced plans to intensify corporate monitoring activities, broaden training and investment forums, and promote greater inclusion of both young and veteran investors.
"As we enter a new chapter, my vision is clear: to strengthen our voice, deepen engagement and elevate the relevance of the Ibadan Zone in national shareholder discourse," Ayoola emphasized, reaffirming the association's commitment to deepening shareholders' involvement in governance processes, including through audit committee roles in companies where members hold shares.
Outgoing Chairman Reflects on Achievements
Outgoing chairman Mr Eric Akinduro reflected on the challenges his administration overcame, particularly highlighting the association's financial turnaround. "We came in when the association was having very serious financial issues, but we thank God today all our legacy debts have been cleared and the financial strength of the association is now in good position," he noted.
Akinduro expressed full confidence in the incoming executive team, describing them as "tested and trusted" through years of service. He emphasized that the association's succession plan ensured continuity and stable leadership, stating "There can never be a vacuum in this association."
The former chairman also used the occasion to commiserate with families of members who passed away during his tenure and appreciated elders whose guidance had strengthened the association.
