The Oba of Lagos, His Royal Majesty Oba Riliwanu Babatunde Akiolu, has expressed strong confidence that Nigeria will successfully navigate its current difficulties and emerge as a stronger, more resilient nation. He delivered this message of hope on Friday, January 16, 2026, during a significant cultural event at his palace.
A Call for Unity and National Contribution
Speaking at the installation ceremony of six new Lagos White Cap Chiefs at Iga Iduganran on Lagos Island, Oba Akiolu emphasized that national progress hinges on collective effort. He urged every Nigerian, regardless of tribal affiliation or socio-economic standing, to play their part in driving the country's development forward.
The monarch stressed the importance of placing the nation's interests above personal or selfish gains. He maintained that under the current administration, Nigeria possesses the potential to overcome all confronting challenges, but this requires the active contribution of all citizens.
Installation of New White Cap Chiefs
The event saw the elevation of six distinguished individuals into the revered ranks of Lagos White Cap Chiefs. The newly installed chiefs and their titles are:
- Architect Gbolahan Oki as the "Ogboni Iduntafa" of Lagos.
- Chief Ajibade Nosiru-Ayeni as the "Eletu Odibo" of Lagos.
- Chief Adebola Olalekan Dosunmu as the "Olorogun Adodo".
- Chief Yusuf Jinadu Bajulu as the "Bajulu" of Lagos.
- Chief Razak Onimole as the "Onimole" of Lagos.
- Chief Lookman Oluwa as the "Onisemo" of Lagos.
Oba Akiolu charged the new chiefs to dedicate themselves to the progress and advancement of both Lagos State and Nigeria as a whole. He reaffirmed that the rich cultural heritage of Lagos indigenes will always be preserved and cherished.
The installation was witnessed by a large and vibrant crowd comprising family members, friends, fellow chiefs, and residents of Lagos Island. The atmosphere outside the palace was festive, resembling a carnival.
Ikorodu Ferry Terminal Set for Reopening
In a related development concerning Lagos infrastructure, the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) has announced the reopening of the Ikorodu Ferry Terminal. The terminal is scheduled to resume full passenger ferry operations on Monday, January 19, 2026.
The facility was initially closed on Monday, October 20, 2025, due to serious navigational hazards caused by an infestation of water hyacinth. During the closure, ferry services were temporarily diverted to the Ibeshe Terminal and Offin Jetty.
In a statement released on Friday, LASWA management confirmed that the waterway has now been successfully cleared of the obstructive plants. Following comprehensive safety assessments and necessary consultations with the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), the terminal has been declared safe for operations.
All ferry operators have been directed to resume normal services in accordance with their approved schedules. LASWA also mandated strict compliance with all existing safety and operational regulations to ensure the well-being of passengers.
