By Funsho Arogundade
The conferment of a chieftaincy title by the Oniru of Iru-land, Oba Gbolahan Lawal to anyone is no ordinary event. It is a profound acknowledgment of exceptional contributions to society, culture and community development. In this light, the selection of Idris Ibikunle Olorunnimbe, the Group Chief Executive of The Temple Company as a recipient of the prestigious title of Asoju Oba of Iru Kingdom from the highly-respected Lagos monarch —as part of activities to mark the fifth anniversary of his peaceful reign on the revered throne— is both timely and well-deserved. It is a celebration of excellence, a recognition of impact, and a testament to the kingdom’s vision for the future.
For Iru-Land, Lagos, and Nigeria, Olorunnimbe’s chieftaincy is a lighthouse to what is possible when excellence is nurtured and celebrated. It is a fitting tribute to a man whose contributions span culture, creative economy, and community development. Indeed, the accolade underscores the global recognition of Olorunnimbe’s efforts to elevate Nigerian art and culture onto the world stage.
In an era where Afrobeats has become a global phenomenon, Olorunnimbe’s contributions have been instrumental in shaping its narrative. As the owner of a state-of-the-art studio, Olorunnimbe has provided a platform that has redefined the standards of Afrobeats and contemporary African music production. His studio serves not only as a hub for music but also as a beacon of African creativity, inspiring countless young talents to dream big and aim higher. Integral to his vision is the Gidi Creative Centre (GCC), a training and educational arm of his creative enterprise. The GCC is a hub where raw talents are nurtured, refined, and transformed into world-class professionals.
Such a legacy is deserving of celebration and honour. So come Saturday June 14, Iru-land will honour one of her sons at the palace (Aafin Oba Oniru) in Victoria Island, Lagos.
