The Director General of the National Sports Commission, Bukola Olopade, has joined millions of well-wishers across the country to celebrate the 82nd birthday anniversary of Oba Michael Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, the Alake of Egbaland, describing him as an “embodiment of leadership, discipline.”
According to a statement signed by Kola Daniel, the Special Assistant on Media to the office of the DG, made available to TVC on Sunday, Olapade stated this after the table tennis tournament held in honour of the paramount ruler of Egbaland, at the Ikoyi Club 1938, to mark his birthday celebration.
According to the statement, Olapade, while attending the event, which was held from the 6th of October to the 10th of October, lauded the feat and hailed Oba Gbadebo for his commitment to community development.
The statement reads, “Hon. Olopade, a notable High Chief in Egbaland, was among the distinguished personalities who graced the table tennis event organised to honour the revered monarch. The tournament, which was held from Monday, October 6 to Friday, October 10, featured multiple categories, including the men’s singles, women’s singles, men’s doubles, premiership and championship divisions, 60+ veterans singles, and the 70+ septuagenarians singles.
Olopade expressed deep admiration for the Alake’s enduring legacy, his passion for sports, and his commitment to community development and youth empowerment through proactive leadership, physical activity and recreation.
“I am truly delighted to join the sons and daughters of Egbaland in celebrating our revered monarch, His Royal Majesty, the Alake of Egbaland, on the occasion of his 82nd birthday. Kabiyesi is a true lover of sports and an embodiment of leadership, discipline, and grace.
“This tournament is a testament to his lifelong belief that sports can unite people and strengthen the bonds of community,” Olopade added. “I heartily felicitate with His Majesty and the good people of Egbaland on this momentous celebration.“
“We will continue to pray for long life, good health, and divine wisdom for His Majesty as he continues to lead his people with honour and purpose,” Olopade stated.
The week-long tournament drew enthusiastic participation and widespread community engagement, highlighting the strong sporting culture that has become synonymous with Egbaland under the visionary leadership of the paramount ruler.
The closing ceremony was marked by vibrant displays of tradition, camaraderie, and celebration, underscoring the Alake’s legacy as a unifying figure who continues to inspire excellence, peace, and progress across generations.
