By Clement Odum
Ikeja Club Unveils Grand Plans for 60th Anniversary, Assures Security, Community Impact
The leadership of Ikeja Club, Lagos, has unveiled an extensive programme of activities to commemorate the club’s 60th anniversary, assuring members, invited guests and the general public of adequate security and logistics for the historic celebration.
Speaking during a press conference in Lagos, members of the club’s executive and the 60th Anniversary Planning Committee highlighted the club’s contributions to society over the past six-decades and outlined activities lined up for the anniversary, which will span about two weeks.
Among those present at the briefing were the Social Secretary, Mr. Babatunde Olonade; Assistant General Secretary, Mr. Sholarin Shameideen; Dr. Olayiwola Quabauya; Vice President, Barr. Abayomi Akin Omoyinmi; Membership Secretary, Mr. Obafemi Salami; Alternate Chairman of the 60th Anniversary Committee, Otunba Sunday Oladotun; Publicity Secretary, Mr. Mustapha Dawodu; member of the Anniversary Committee, Mr. Biyi Ayinde; Arts and Sports Secretary, Mr. Soloki Oluwasegun Babatunde; and the General Secretary, Mr. Babatunde Obakoya.
Addressing concerns about security, the club said comprehensive arrangements had been put in place to ensure the safety of participants throughout the celebration.
According to the organisers, all fire extinguishers within the club premises have been inspected and serviced, while an ambulance will be stationed at the venue throughout the events.
The club also disclosed that it is working closely with the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), the Nigeria Police Force, including its Rapid Response Squad (RRS) and Motor Traffic Division, as well as other relevant security agencies.
“We have made adequate provision for the safety and security of members and invited guests before, during and after the celebration. We are expecting a large turnout, and all necessary emergency and security measures have been put in place,” the organisers said.
Speaking of his ambition to become the next President of Ikeja Club, the Vice President, Barr. Abayomi Akin Omoyinmi, said his aspiration is driven by a desire to sustain the developmental strides recorded by the current administration.
He explained that the club’s elections are conducted annually, with no individual permitted to serve more than three years as president.
“My agenda is to continue the developmental projects and reforms that have taken place over the past three years, during which I have served in the leadership. No administration can complete every project at once. Leadership is about continuity, building on existing foundations and ensuring progress is sustained,” he said.
He added that if elected, he would focus on promoting unity among members, strengthening relationships within the club, attracting new members and enhancing the club’s visibility through social and charitable initiatives.
“We must continue with the blueprint already established. We want to bring members together, strengthen unity, expand our membership and enhance our corporate social responsibility so that Ikeja Club will continue to rank among the foremost elite clubs in Lagos State.”
The Vice President disclosed that the club currently has about 2,000 members and remains open to prospective members.
“The club operates seven days a week, and members are free to visit at their convenience,” he said.
On membership requirements, the club explained that applicants must be at least 25 years old and be sponsored by two financial members of the club.
Applicants are required to complete the prescribed application forms, pay a membership fee of ₦1 million and undergo screening by the Membership Screening Committee.
According to the club, applicants who successfully pass the screening process will be inducted, while unsuccessful applicants will have their membership fee refunded.
“The integrity of every applicant is important. Prospective members must be people of good character and responsibility before they can be admitted into the club,” the leadership stated.
Highlighting activities for the anniversary celebration, the organisers said a special anniversary church service will be held at the Archbishop Vining Memorial Cathedral on August 23.
The programme will also feature the induction of new members, honouring of distinguished traditional rulers, and posthumous awards for the founding fathers of the club. Family members of the late founders will receive the awards on their behalf in recognition of their invaluable contributions to the establishment and growth of Ikeja Club.
The club also noted that it has intensified efforts to attract younger professionals into its fold, saying the current membership reflects a healthy blend of experienced and younger members.
Established six decades ago, Ikeja Club remains one of Lagos State’s foremost social organisations, promoting friendship, leadership, community development and philanthropy through various social and charitable activities.
