Former EACDA National President, Prince Aiyeniko Bags Lifetime Achievement Award
A former National President of Ekinrin-Adde Community Development Association (EACDA), Prince Olajide Emmanuel Aiyeniko, has been listed among the accomplished retired indigenes of the community, to receive Lifetime Achievement Award at the forthcoming Awards-Night.
According to the EACDA National Publicity Secretary, Pastor Emmanuel Ajibola Ogungbuyi, the Lifetime Achievement Award is a category of Award that honours and celebrates selected sons and daughters of the community who have successfully retired from active service but continues to contribute meaningfully to the community and humanity.
Born into the revered Ayeniko Royal Dynasty of Okedega, Ilaga Adde, several decades ago, Prince Olajide Emmanuel Aiyeniko spent his early years in Kainji, New Bussa, where he was nurtured with values of discipline and hardwork.
- Advertisement -
He later returned home to Ekinrin-Adde for his primary education at KDJEC before proceeding to Ilorin for his secondary education.
His passion for learning and personal development led him into the teaching profession shortly after completing his education. After a brief but impactful period as a teacher, he gained admission into the prestigious University of Ilorin, where he obtained his first degree.
Following the successful completion of his studies and the mandatory National Youth Service Corps programme in Katsina State, he returned to the University of Ilorin and earned a Master’s Degree with distinction.
Like many ambitious young Nigerians seeking greater opportunities, Prince Olajide Aiyeniko relocated to the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, where he began a successful career with the National Youth Service Corps. Through dedication and exemplary service, he rose steadily through the ranks and eventually retired meritoriously at the Directorate cadre level.
He is a foremost community mobilizer and development advocate who has consistently demonstrated a deep love for his community.
His leadership journey in the community began early, first, he served as President of Ekinrin-Adde Students Union at ITC, Ilorin. He later became Assistant National Secretary of Ekinrin-Adde Community Development Association during the administration of the late Akin Paddy Ibilaiye.
In 1993, he emerged as the National President of Ekinrin-Adde Students Union. During his tenure, he worked closely with the Ekinrin-Adde Community Development Association under the leadership of the late Alaremu Victor Faleke to successfully organize the maiden edition of the now celebrated Ekinrin-Adde Day Cultural Festival, an event that has grown into one of the largest annual gathering in Okun land.
Prince Olajide also served as the National Public Relations Officer of the Ekinrin-Adde Community Development Association during the tenure of Elder Babalola and later became Secretary of Abuja Branch of the association.
His commitment and leadership eventually earned him election as National President of EACDA, a position he held between 2018 and 2020. During his administration, several developmental initiatives were pursued, including his facilitation of the establishment of the first FM radio station in Ekinrin-Adde, a landmark achievement that continues to serve as a platform for information and community engagement.
Prince Olajide Aiyeniko also played a key role in youth development. He has mentored and facilitated opportunities for numerous young people participating in the National Youth Service Corps programme, providing guidance and support to help them navigate their careers and personal development.
He served as Secretary of the committee established to pursue the creation of Ekinrin-Adde Local Government Area, working under the leadership and guidance of the late Olu S. I. Hambolu.
In recognition of his dedication and outstanding contributions to community development, he was honoured with the National Service Merit Award by the EACDA in 2021.
After retirement, he returned to the academia to pursue a Doctor of Philosophy degree at the Federal University Lokoja. He is a lecturer at the same university contributing to knowledge and research.
Prince Ayeniko Olajide Emmanuel is happily married to Olori Yemisi Ayeniko, and their union is blessed with children. Together, they have built a family founded on strong values and faith.
(DEMOCRACY NEWSLINE NEWSPAPER, JUNE 21ST 2026)
