By Araba, Olawale Enifenilanfe:
His Royal Majesty, Oba (Engr.) Kabiru Adewale Shotobi (HMR), the paramount ruler of Ikorodu Division and Ayangburen of Ikorodu Kingdom, in collaboration with Rev. Benjamin O. Dawodu, President of the Association of Jerusalem Pilgrims, recently organized the 9th Christmas Carol. This event, centred on the theme “Servant Leadership,” served as an end-of-year thanksgiving ceremony conducted on Thursday, December 12th, 2024, at the Ayangburen Palace in Ikorodu, Lagos State, Nigeria. The gathering aimed to express gratitude for God’s grace, protection, and guidance throughout the year.
The program commenced with a reading from the biblical text of Luke 2:43-47 by His Royal Majesty. This passage recounts the birth of Jesus, His presentation in the temple, and the episode in which His parents discovered that He had remained in Jerusalem. This reading effectively set the stage for a celebration dedicated to the principles of service and leadership.
In his keynote address, Rev. Benjamin O. Dawodu elaborated on the theme of “Servant Leadership,” referencing Matthew 20:27, which emphasizes the necessity for leaders to possess a spirit of service. He articulated that true leadership should be built upon the foundation of a genuine commitment to serve others. The notion of leadership, as conveyed by Rev. Dawodu, transcends mere ambition and is grounded in the principles of servanthood.
Moreover, Rev. Dawodu cited John 13:15, wherein Jesus provides an exemplar of humility and service, encouraging attendees to emulate His approach. He highlighted that leadership entails a profound responsibility that demands sacrificial giving and a commitment to the welfare of others, contrasting earthly notions of power with divine expectations of service.
The Rev. further delineated essential leadership qualities drawn from Acts 6:3, which include: good reputation, wisdom, dedication, courage, flexibility, decisiveness, emotional maturity, discipline, and teamwork. The importance of these characteristics underscores that effective leadership must embody a spirit of servitude and a dedication to the common good.
Special Apostle Abiodun Ogunleye, who served as the minister in charge of the prayer band, commended the humility of Oba Shotobi and encouraged the citizens of Ikorodu to reflect these virtues in their daily lives.
Hon. Babajimi Adegoke Benson, representing the Ikorodu Federal Constituency, was ably represented by Otunba Ayodele Elesho (JP). He referenced Zechariah 9:13, emphasizing the significance of unity among God’s people in fulfilling His purpose.
In conclusion, His Royal Majesty expressed profound gratitude towards the community of Ikorodu Division and offered prayers for their continued well-being amidst the prevailing challenges facing the nation. He urged the Jerusalem Pilgrims and residents to remain steadfast in prayer and deeply committed to the growth and development of Ikorodu Division, thereby reinforcing the core theme of collective service and leadership.
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