In a momentous event that marked a new chapter in the storied history of one of Nigeria’s most prestigious social institutions, the Lagos Country Club, Ikeja, on Friday officially inaugurated its new Management Council amid excitement, cultural flair, and high expectations for the future.
The swearing-in ceremony, held at the club’s beautifully adorned Main Hall, was presided over by Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Aare Kola Oyefeso, who called on members to embrace unity and collective responsibility as the club enters a fresh era of leadership. The Chairman emphasized the need for continuity, discipline, and members-driven innovation to restore and elevate the club’s legacy as a hub of recreation, excellence, and national pride.
He expressed gratitude to God and the membership for restoring democratic governance after nearly two years of crisis.
“It would have been sheer indifference to inaugurate the newly elected Council as if nothing had happened,” Oyefeso noted, and praised the adhoc committees that guided the Club through its most turbulent period.
Lagos Country Club New Council Takes the Helms
The newly inaugurated Management Council, led by Mr. Seyi Adewunmi as President, comprises accomplished professionals and longstanding club members who have pledged to uphold the core values and culture of Lagos Country Club. Joining Adewunmi in the council are:
- Engr. Tunji Amosu– Vice President
- Toyin Deinde – Secretary-General
- Otunba Abimbola Olaniyi – Treasurer
- Francis Ofordu – Membership Secretary
- Vincent Olasogba – Sports Secretary
- Ose Lato – Social Secretary
- Arc. Tokunbo Ashiru– Committee Member
In his acceptance speech, President Adewunmi expressed gratitude to members for their confidence and support, promising a tenure characterized by transparency, inclusiveness, innovation, and a strong sense of purpose. He outlined the new council’s focus areas: reinvigorating club activities, expanding social and sporting programs, fostering member engagement, and improving infrastructure and administrative efficiency.
“We are not just inheriting an office,” Adewunmi stated, “we are inheriting a legacy. A legacy that must be preserved, modernized, and passed on even stronger to the next generation,” Adewunmi, who is the Club’s 25th President, said.
He addressed the crises that engulfed the club, saying “I want to publicly tender my unreserved apology to every member of Lagos Country Club,” and offering “a hand of fellowship and a peace offering” to rebuild the institution.
He honored those whose discreet efforts kept the Club afloat. “There are so many elders who planted trees under whose shade they may never sit.”
Adewunmi pledged that his Management Council would deliver outstanding service. “Our members have suffered and been patient; they deserve only the best membership experiences.”
A Festive Celebration of Culture and Legacy
The inauguration was more than just a formal event, it was a celebration of community, heritage, and entertainment. The evening was brought to life by the vibrant Luli Band, whose performance kept the atmosphere buoyant and celebratory.
The highlight of the entertainment was the electrifying performance of legendary Juju maestro Sir Shina Peters, whose energetic performance had members dancing and reminiscing into the night. His music, rich with Yoruba percussion and melodic guitar work, resonated with the club’s intergenerational membership and symbolized a harmonious blend of tradition and contemporary vibrance.
A Turning Point After Challenging Times
This ceremony comes on the heels of a challenging period for the club, which had witnessed a temporary leadership vacuum, internal legal disputes, and organizational turbulence. Earlier in the year, a caretaker committee was set up to stabilize the club and organize free and fair elections—an initiative that culminated in the smooth emergence of the newly inaugurated council.
According to members in attendance, this transition represents not just a change in leadership but a renewal of hope and a reset of the values that made the Lagos Country Club a cornerstone of social and sporting life in Nigeria.
Looking Ahead
Under the leadership of the new council, Lagos Country Club is expected to relaunch several initiatives, including the rejuvenation of sporting sections, resumption of inter-club competitions, and improved welfare and engagement for members. Committees will also be formed to focus on youth development, elder statesmen recognition, and wider community involvement.
Already, plans are underway for the club’s participation in the June 28th “Golf For Peace” tournament, to be hosted at the Ikeja Golf Club a symbolic gesture of reconciliation, unity, and national peace.
As the applause died down and the lights dimmed late into the evening, it was clear to all who attended that something significant had occurred; not just the installation of a new leadership, but the reawakening of a beloved institution.