WELCOME ADDRESS
By Femi Alufa Esq.
Publisher/CEO, Ekiti Summit News Media Group
(Organiser of the Ekiti Summit People of the Year Award 2026)
Your Majesties, distinguished guests, policymakers, award recipients, members of the media, business leaders, youth advocates, friends of Ekiti from Nigeria and the diaspora, ladies and gentlemen.
On behalf of the Ekiti Summit News Media Group, it is my honour and privilege to warmly welcome you to the 2026 Ekiti Summit People of the Year Award.
Today, we gather not only to celebrate achievements, but also to honour the enduring values of service, integrity, leadership, excellence, and community impact. These values strengthen society, preserve our heritage, and inspire future generations.
At Ekiti Summit News, our guiding philosophy is simple yet profound: “Reasoning in Freedom.”
We believe that true progress flourishes where people are free to think independently, speak truthfully, and contribute responsibly to society. Our commitment to governance, development, democracy, and public discourse is rooted in this principle.
This vision is beautifully captured in the timeless words of Rabindranath Tagore in Gitanjali:
“Where the mind is without fear and the head is held high;
Where knowledge is free;
Where the clear stream of reason has not lost its way into the dreary desert sand of dead habit;…
Into that heaven of freedom, my Father, let my country awake.”
These powerful words reflect the spirit of this occasion and the mission of Ekiti Summit News.
The Ekiti Summit People of the Year Award is more than an award ceremony; it is a platform of recognition and responsibility. It celebrates individuals whose lives and contributions continue to uplift communities, strengthen institutions, promote culture, encourage innovation, and advance the progress of Ekiti State and Nigeria.
Over the years, this award has grown into a respected institution celebrating excellence in governance, entrepreneurship, education, journalism, culture, philanthropy, public service, and civic leadership. Our honourees remind us that true success is measured not only by personal achievements, but by positive impact on humanity.
Today, we proudly celebrate an exceptional group of awardees whose dedication and accomplishments inspire hope and excellence across generations.
Lifetime Achievement Award Recipients
- Aare Afe Babalola, SAN, OFR, CON
- Senator (Dr.) Michael Opeyemi Bamidele, CON
- H.E. Erelu Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi
Person of the Year
H.E. Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, First Lady of Ekiti State.
We also honour distinguished personalities in the categories of:
1.Political and Legislative Leadership
2.Royal and Public Service
3.Social Impact and Diaspora Contributions
Special recognitions will also be presented for excellence in literature, culture, tourism, ICT, education, philanthropy, community leadership, and youth development.
As we celebrate these outstanding individuals today, let us reaffirm our commitment to integrity, freedom of thought, service to humanity, and responsible leadership — values essential for sustainable development and national progress.
Distinguished guests, thank you for being part of this memorable occasion. Your presence adds great significance to this celebration of leadership, heritage, vision, and community impact.
May today inspire us all to continue contributing meaningfully toward a greater Ekiti State and a stronger Nigeria.
Once again, welcome to the 2026 Ekiti Summit People of the Year Award.
Thank you, and God bless you all.