North America — The Iwoland Descendants Association (IDA) has reaffirmed its confidence in the leadership of High Chief Sarafadeen Babalola, re-electing him for a second term as President-General of the socio-cultural and philanthropic body.
The re-election followed the conclusion of a rigorous two-week consultative and resolution process conducted by the IDA Electoral Committee, chaired by High Prince Semiu Tadese. The process culminated in the association’s statutory monthly meeting held on Saturday, February 7, 2026, which also marked the formal end of the tenure of the outgoing executives in line with provisions of the association’s constitution.
At the well-attended meeting, members unanimously passed a vote of confidence in Chief Babalola, urging him to continue steering the affairs of the association for another term. The endorsement was also extended to other members of the executive council, while additional officers were nominated to strengthen the administration.
Presenting the committee’s report, High Prince Tadese announced the newly nominated executive members, while the committee’s secretary, Alhaji Muh’d-Roji Babajide Sheu, formally presented the full list of officers for the 2026–2028 tenure.
Executive Council (2026–2028)
-
High Chief Sarafadeen Babalola — President
-
Mrs. Mayowa Fawole, PhD — Vice President I
-
Dr. Mutolib Abolusodun — Vice President II
-
Engr. Marufu Salawu — General Secretary
-
Dr. Olawale Alimi — Assistant General Secretary
-
Engr. Yusuf Akintayo Akinbade, PhD — Public Relations Officer
-
Mallam Abdullah Inaolaji — Assistant PRO
-
Mrs. Folake Yamuso — Welfare Director
-
Princess Bola Adeyemi — Assistant Welfare Director
-
Engr. Kayode Omotoso — Financial Director
-
Engr. Jamiu Alabi — Assistant Financial Director
-
Prince Oluwafemi Oyebamiji — Social Director
-
Alhaji Akanji — Legal Adviser
Following the announcement, the functions and responsibilities of each office were clearly outlined. The elected officers were subsequently sworn in by Alhaji Adeniyi Ismail Rufai, in strict compliance with the association’s constitution and ethical code.
Commitment to Service and Accountability
In his acceptance speech, Chief Babalola expressed deep gratitude to members for the renewed trust reposed in him, describing the mandate as both a privilege and a call to service. He urged members of the executive council to discharge their duties with dedication, humility, and a strong sense of responsibility to the people of Iwoland.
He appealed for sustained support from members across the United States and Canada, stressing that collective commitment remains central to the association’s growth and developmental impact in Iwoland. According to him, the new administration will consolidate on past achievements while safeguarding the legacy built by previous leaders.
Reflecting on the association’s journey, Chief Babalola described the Iwoland Descendants Association as a visionary diaspora initiative established to unite indigenes of Iwoland in North America. He noted that IDA has evolved into a prominent philanthropic organisation, distinguished by community-focused interventions and developmental projects.
He acknowledged the contributions of several members whose efforts have strengthened the association over the years, noting that IDA’s progress has been driven by shared sacrifice, unity, and purpose.
Addressing Challenges, Looking Ahead
In his inaugural address for the second term, Chief Babalola spoke candidly about challenges facing the association, particularly in the areas of financial commitment and social engagement. He said: “As a human, I can only assure you of my commitment and best efforts in pushing the IDA forward beyond where I met it,” he said. “Our needs must be redirected towards stronger social engagement and financial sustainability. Our financial commitments are not encouraging, and I take responsibility as part of the challenge.”
He emphasised the need for a more flexible and inclusive membership framework, as permitted by the constitution, to attract committed individuals driven by service rather than sentiment.
Expressing optimism, Chief Babalola said the association, with its current leadership structure, is well positioned to become one of the most effective and impactful indigenous diaspora organisations connected to Iwoland in the near future.
He also commended the Board of Trustees and the Electoral Committee for ensuring a transparent, credible, and seamless leadership transition.
The meeting concluded with closing remarks and renewed expressions of confidence in the leadership and direction of the association ahead of its next statutory gathering.
