By Oluwatoyin Mathnuel
It was a vibrant gathering of youthful hearts and “Not Too Young to Run” energy at the Igbesa Civic Center, Ogun State, as the Association of Awori Intellectuals inaugurated its first female president, Princess Mrs. Feyikemi Banuso-Lawrence, in grand style.
The Association of Awori Intellectuals, a non-partisan body, has been active for over 16 years, making significant contributions to society—particularly to the indigenous people of Aworiland.
During the event, Mr. Festus Okeshade, representative of awardee Ogbeni Oye Taiwo, called for unity among Awori youth. He passionately urged parents to teach their children the Awori dialect, stressing that the language is endangered and must not go extinct. He further encouraged the association to create avenues for the formal teaching of the dialect.
In a symbolic moment, outgoing president Prince Sunkanmi Akapo proudly handed over leadership to Princess Feyikemi Banuso-Lawrence. A vocal supporter of gender equality, Prince Akapo expressed confidence in her capabilities, echoing the sentiment, “What a man can do, a woman can do better.”
Speaking to Insight Global News, President Feyikemi Lawrence reflected on her journey—having served as the association’s Welfare Officer and Vice Chairman before assuming the presidency. She described her emergence as a natural progression and a privilege.
President Banuso-Lawrence affirmed her administration would build upon the foundation laid by her predecessor, with a renewed focus on education, youth empowerment, and partnerships with diaspora associations to attract resources, funding, and manpower for upcoming initiatives.
She expressed deep appreciation to key supporters of the association, including Alhaji Rorulai, Barr. Dauda, Hon. Tunji Akinosi, Hon. Kola Salako, and others who have stood by the association through its journey.
Princess Feyikemi also pledged to establish a tutorial center aimed at preserving and promoting the Awori dialect among younger generations.
Comrade Ogundare Azeez Ayinde, Chairman of the June 12th, 2025 Inauguration Committee, spoke to the media about the association’s track record of impact—highlighting its sponsorship of JAMB and nursing forms, support for senior citizens, and outreach to the less privileged within Awori communities.
He closed by encouraging President Feyikemi to ensure inclusivity, expand the association’s reach to Awori indigenes in the diaspora, and nurture unity within the body. “In unity,” he said, “the Association of Awori Intellectuals remains unshakable.”
The event was graced by esteemed Awori elders, presidents of the Igbesa, Agbara, and Ado-Odo/Ota Youth Associations, as well as parents, relatives, and well-wishers of the new president. It was a memorable occasion marking a historic milestone in the association’s legacy.
