Encomiums poured in on Sunday as Olori Adejumoke Adeleye, wife of the Olubaka of Oka-Akoko, was honoured with the Queen of the Year award in recognition of her humanitarian efforts and contributions to community development in Ondo State.
The award was presented by Sunshine Standard Magazine during a colourful ceremony held at the OSDPC Multipurpose Hall in Akure, where dignitaries and well-wishers gathered to celebrate the royal figure.
Speaking at the event, the organiser, Mr Oludaisi Adetarami, said the Olori earned the recognition due to her compassion, leadership qualities and sustained commitment to humanitarian service across communities.
He noted that her initiatives, particularly the annual Christmas carol and children’s funfair in Oka-Akoko, had positively impacted vulnerable children and strengthened social bonds within the ancient town.
According to him, the Olori’s lifestyle reflects grace, faith and dedication to service, adding that her role in promoting unity and peaceful coexistence has made her a role model to many women in the state.
The Olubaka of Oka Kingdom, Oba Yusuf Adebori Adeleye, represented at the ceremony by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Gbenga Omole, described the award as a collective honour for the entire kingdom rather than an individual recognition.
He said the recognition reflected the shared values and cultural heritage of the people, while commending the organisers for celebrating individuals contributing meaningfully to society.
Responding, the Olori expressed gratitude for the honour, describing it as unexpected but deeply motivating, adding that the recognition would encourage her to expand her humanitarian activities.
She dedicated the award to her late father, Prince Benjamin Abiodun Daudu, a retired headmaster from Ipe-Akoko, whom she credited for instilling in her the principles of compassion and service.
In separate goodwill messages, community leaders and dignitaries, including Felix Ale of the National Space Research and Development Agency, praised her loyalty to the throne and commitment to initiatives that have brought joy and support to families, describing her emergence as Queen of the Year as well deserved. To
