Renowned philanthropist and Business magnate, Dr. Tola Awosika, was the Special Guest of Honour at the 2025 Ekimogun Day Celebration, held on August 23rd in London. The annual cultural event, which brings together Ondo indigenes in the diaspora, celebrated unity, heritage and the ongoing development of Ondo Kingdom.
Addressing the audience during his keynote speech, Dr. Awosika, as a proud Son of the soil, enunciated his excitement and pride at attending the UK edition for the first time.
According to him, “I am excited to be here at this annual event. Even though it is my first time attending such in England, everyone looks beautiful, as Ondo people are always colorful.”
Reflecting on his role as the Chairman of the 2023 Ekimogun Day in Ondo Kingdom, where he made history as the youngest ever to chair the event, Dr. Awosika emphasized the importance of cultural gatherings as platforms for meaningful impact.
“That event was a point of contact to reach out and contribute to our Ondo communities. I can see a beautiful replication of that here today and I am so excited about it.” He said.
He went on to appreciate the organizers of the London event and lauded the efforts of Ondo sons and daughters in the diaspora for remaining committed to development back home.
“ For me, I see the people in the diaspora as the fourth arm of government, supporting our communities with laudable initiatives and holding our office holders accountable across all levels. I look forward to attending more events like this.” He concluded.
Dr. Awosika served not only as the keynote speaker, but also as the chief launcher of the 2025 UK edition. He made a substantial financial contribution, donating the sum of Five Million Naira (#5,000,000.00) as a catalyst for the pertinent project of more solar street lights in sensitive areas, which will not only accentuate the infrastructure of Ondo City but curb insecurities in areas challenged with total darkness in Ondo kingdom. This was hitherto achieved with his friends and associates who also accompanied him by supporting the initiative with robust donations as well.
The Ekimogun Day, traditionally celebrated in Ondo Kingdom, is replicated in various countries to promote and preserve the cultural heritage of the Ondo people. The event also serves as a unifying pedigree, transcending political, social and religious divides. This year’s celebration in the UK drew participation from well-meaning individuals and dignitaries from different countries who have hitherto contributed immensely to the growth of Ondo Kingdom.
The Ondo community in the UK has a long history of impactful charitable works, including the donation of food items to orphanages, the installation of solar-powered streetlights and the provision of COVID-19 relief materials during the pandemic. Described by many as the most successful edition ever held in the United Kingdom, the 2025 event was a colorful and memorable showcase of Ondo pride and unity.
The event drew it's curtain with deep appreciation from the organizers and attendees, who in the same vein, commended Dr. Tola Awosika for his enduring generosity and commitment to community development always, both at home and in the diaspora.
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