The Ibadan Elite Chapter of the Junior Chamber International (JCI) honored two of its past presidents, Bar. Sanmi Abiodun and Mrs. Kemi Irioye, by conferring upon them the title of JCI Senators during the 2023 Convention and investiture ceremony. The ceremony also marked the transition of leadership from JCIN Amb. Lanre Alawode to Cynthia Akhagbeme-Simeon, who has assumed the role of the organization’s 7th LO president.
JCI Ibadan Elite, affiliated with JCI Nigeria and the international JCI body, is dedicated to engaging young and active citizens committed to making a positive impact in their communities. The organization equips young individuals with the skills, knowledge, and understanding necessary for informed decision-making and meaningful action.
The highlight of the event was when the outgoing 2023 president, Lanre Alawode, conferred the prestigious title of JCI Senator upon two past presidents, JCI Senator Sanmi Abiodun (2019 president) and JCI Senator Kemi Irioye (2020 president). Until that day, the charter President of the organization, JCI Senator Tolu Adeniyi, was the sole JCI Senator within the Ibadan Elite Chapter.
The Convention and Investiture Ceremony, held under the theme “Youth Empowerment: Building Sustainable Leadership for Tomorrow,” was organized by the 2023 Executive, led by Lanre Alawode, at the prestigious University of Ibadan International Conference Centre on Sunday, 22nd October 2023.
After presenting a report on his stewardship, Lanre Alawode extended his congratulations to his successor, Cynthia Akhagbeme-Simeon, and the entire newly inaugurated 2024 Executives. He encouraged them to sustain and uphold the reputation and prestige of the local organization, JCI Ibadan Elite.
Cynthia, the newly elected president, currently serves as the Personal Assistant to the Executive Secretary of Lagos State at the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy. She brings a wealth of experience to her new role, having previously held positions such as the outgoing Vice President and Director of Protocol and Public Relations in 2022.
In her acceptance speech, President Akhagbeme-Simeon expressed gratitude for the organization’s trust in her leadership. She called on all members to support the vision of taking JCI Ibadan to new heights and unveiled her theme for 2024 as “Integrate, Elevate, and Emerge.”
The guest speaker, Senator Pascal Dike, emphasized the importance of empowering youth to face the challenges of the modern world. He encouraged youths to believe in their potential, be resilient, and pursue their dreams while making positive differences in their communities and beyond.
Dike also highlighted the responsibility that comes with leadership and the need to stay true to values, strive for justice and equality, and be a positive influence in the world. He emphasized the importance of continuous learning and understanding the perspectives of others to create a brighter future.
Distinguished JCI personalities in attendance included JCI Senator Rotimi Adewole (JCI Nigeria Senate Chair), JCI Senator Ayo Abolusodun (2010 National President JCI Nigeria), JCI Senator Abiola Olorunisola (2021 National President JCI Nigeria), JCI Senator Adeyemo Adeonipekun (Executive Secretary JCI Nigeria), and JCI Senator Tolu Adeniyi (Charter President JCI Ibadan Elite).
Other notable figures in attendance comprised Dr. Tunde Faleye, MD/CEO of Omoluabi Holdings Ltd; Prince Yinka Afonja, Chairman of Acemall; Engr. Greg Akhagbeme-Simeon, among others.
The newly appointed President will collaborate with her board members, including Johnson Ilerioluwa (Executive Vice President), Ibukun Otesile (Vice President Internal), Funmi Shodipo (Vice President External), Glory Oyewunmi (General Legal Counsel), among others, to lead the organization into a future marked by unity, purpose, and unparalleled achievement.
