By IDRIS OLUKOYA

Prof. John Obafunwa, a former Vice-Chancellor, Lagos State University, has been conferred with the chieftaincy title of Balogun of Ilara Kingdom in Epe, Lagos State.

The conferment was performed on Saturday by the Traditional Ruler of Ilara Kingdom, Oba Olufolarin Ogunsanwo, at his palace at Eredo-Epe.

Ogunsanwo also conferred chieftaincy titles on other personalities including Prof. Kemi Pinheiro and Amb. Oluwatoyin Lawal.

In his remarks, Ogunsanwo said the conferment was part of his efforts to bring reputable sons and daughters of the community closer to the throne to support the growth of Ilara Kingdom.

The traditional ruler commended all recipients of the community’s chieftaincy title, urging them to be committed to service.

Responding, Obafunwa, now the Director-General of the Nigeria Institute of Medical Research, expressed gratitude to Ogunsanwo and the Ilara community for the recognition.

He promised to use his wealth of experience to contribute more to the progress of the community.

He noted that the chieftaincy title symbolised courage, leadership and service, pledging to use his new role to deepen community development and youth empowerment in Ilara.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event attracted dignitaries from the academia and the traditional institution, as well as politicians and business owners.

Other prominent personalities honoured with chieftaincy titles include: Mr Jelili Olayemi, Mrs Abiodun Lawal and Dr Olanrewaju Obasa.

Also honoured are Chief Akinyele Oladeji, Mrs Toyin Oladeji, Mr Rotimi Edu and Mrs Olayemi Edu. (NAN)