The Alara of Ilara Kingdom, His Royal Majesty Oba Dr. Olufolarin Olukayode Ogunsanwo, Telade IV, has marked six years on the throne of his forefathers with an inter-religious prayer session at his palace.
Epe Insights reports that the anniversary was commemorated on Sunday, August 16, 2026, after which the monarch spoke with the press on the development recorded in Ilara Kingdom during his six-year reign.
Oba Ogunsanwo, who is the 55th Alara of Ilara Kingdom, used the occasion to reflect on the progress made since his ascension to the throne.
The monarch expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Lagos State Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, his subjects and other stakeholders for their continued support for Ilara Kingdom.
He also appreciated individuals, organisations and groups that have contributed to the development efforts across the kingdom.
According to the Alara, the support received from various stakeholders has helped strengthen the kingdom’s development plans.
Reflecting on his six years on the throne, Oba Ogunsanwo described the period as one marked by several achievements across different sectors.
He acknowledged that the achievements recorded during his reign include developments in infrastructure, education, youth engagement and women’s empowerment.
The monarch also highlighted efforts aimed at creating an enabling environment for economic growth within Ilara Kingdom.
He described these interventions as modest achievements while expressing gratitude for the opportunity to serve as the traditional ruler of the historic kingdom.
According to Oba Ogunsanwo, the development recorded during his reign extends beyond Ilara and contributes to the progress of Epe Division and Lagos State.
He noted that the traditional institution has an important role to play in supporting initiatives that improve the welfare and opportunities available to residents.
Education was identified as one of the key areas receiving attention during the six-year period.
The monarch emphasised the importance of supporting educational development as part of efforts to prepare young people for future opportunities.
He also highlighted youth engagement as an important component of his administration’s development focus.
According to him, empowering young people remains essential to building a productive and sustainable community.
Women empowerment also featured among the areas highlighted by the monarch.
He noted that supporting women and creating opportunities for their participation in economic activities can contribute significantly to community development.
The Alara further pointed to initiatives designed to promote economic growth and create a more favourable environment for residents and businesses.
He said such efforts are important in improving livelihoods and strengthening the economic base of Ilara Kingdom.
The monarch’s six-year anniversary provided an opportunity to assess the progress recorded under his traditional leadership.
The inter-religious prayer session also brought together members of different faith communities to mark the occasion and offer prayers for the kingdom.
The event reflected the importance placed on unity, peaceful coexistence and collective prayers for continued development.
Oba Ogunsanwo expressed appreciation for the goodwill and support he has received throughout his reign.
He recognised the contributions of his subjects and other stakeholders to the progress achieved within the kingdom.
The monarch also acknowledged the importance of cooperation between traditional institutions, government authorities and community stakeholders.
He noted that continued collaboration would be necessary to sustain development efforts across Ilara.
Oba Ogunsanwo is also the 6th Chancellor of Lagos State University, adding another significant public responsibility to his traditional role.
His position at the university further places him within the broader educational and institutional development landscape of Lagos State.
As he begins another year on the throne, the Alara expressed optimism about the future of Ilara Kingdom.
He indicated that the progress achieved so far should serve as a foundation for further development.
The monarch’s remarks also highlighted the importance of maintaining strong relationships with government officials, residents and development partners.
For the people of Ilara, the sixth anniversary represents an opportunity to celebrate the journey so far while looking ahead to new development priorities.
The occasion also reinforced the importance of unity among residents and continued support for initiatives that benefit the kingdom.
Oba Ogunsanwo expressed gratitude for the honour of serving as the 55th Alara of Ilara.
He described his six years on the throne as a period of service, responsibility and gradual progress.
The monarch further expressed confidence that continued cooperation among stakeholders would help Ilara achieve greater development in the years ahead.
As the kingdom marks the sixth anniversary of his reign, attention is expected to remain focused on sustaining achievements while pursuing new opportunities for growth.
