ODA-NEC, ODA North America Strengthen Ties At Landmark Bilateral Meeting

The National Executive Committee (NEC) of the Okun Development Association (ODA) and its North America chapter (ODA-NA) have reaffirmed their commitment to deeper collaboration and unified advocacy for the advancement of the Okun nation following a landmark bilateral meeting held on Saturday, February 14, 2026.
The virtual interface, which commenced at 8:00 p.m. WAT and lasted three and a half hours, drew 34 participants from Nigeria and North America, underscoring the growing synergy between the homeland leadership and the diaspora.
The ODA-NEC delegation was led by the President-General, H.E. Amb. Akenson Femi Rotimi (Lisa Egbe), alongside key members including Chief Ibrahim Adoga (Vice President-General, North), Chief Solomon Olawumi (Vice President-General, South), Prince Dayo Akanmode (National Treasurer), Araba Rufus Aiyenigba (Secretary, Elders Council), Mr. Moses Anjorin, Hon. Bolanle Amupitan (Abuja Liaison Officer), and Dr. Ayo Moses (National Social Secretary).
Also present was Dr. David Atte, ODA-NEC Technical Consultant, who provided strategic insights on the restructuring agenda and the integration of the Okun nation into the South-West, as well as perspectives on strengthening the Okun security framework.
On the North America side, ODA-NA was led by its President, Elder Larry Adeyemi. Pastor E.J. Ejibunu delivered the welcome address and opening prayer, while also leading a minute’s silence in honour of the late National Secretary, Barrister Femi Amos Oloruntoba. Dr. Gloria Ajayi introduced members of the ODA-NA Executive Board and the meeting facilitator, Dr. Tunde Alaofin, who outlined the core agenda for the bilateral engagement. Barrister Tunde Bello further presented the organisational and operational guidelines of ODA-NA.
In his address, the President-General presented a comprehensive executive summary of the NEC’s activities since its inauguration on March 9, 2024. He highlighted key initiatives including the Okun Memorandum to the National Assembly on the creation of Okun State, the Okun Security Summit, the establishment of the Okun Security Implementation Committee, and the Okun Security Trust Fund.
The NEC also detailed its past and ongoing security interventions in Okunland, emphasizing continued efforts to support and consolidate the work of the current leadership.
Prince Dayo Akanmode briefed participants on reconciliation steps taken by the NEC regarding the boycott action by the Kabba Development Union, stressing the importance of unity and constructive engagement.
Addressing concerns within the Okun socio-political landscape, the President-General clarified the NEC’s position on differing approaches to the agitation for an Okun Governor in Kogi State. He reiterated that the overarching mandate of the ODA remains the promotion and protection of the collective interest of the Okun nation and assured that the association would align with the general consensus of the Okun people.
Key Resolutions
The meeting resolved that ODA-NA should be kept adequately informed of NEC programmes and activities to enable meaningful input and participation from the diaspora. Both parties also agreed to institutionalise periodic bilateral interfaces to sustain communication and collaboration.
Participants emphasized the need to leverage comparative advantages and spheres of influence across both ends to advance shared goals.
In a show of continued partnership, ODA-NA pledged to provide a comprehensive report of the meeting in due course.
The February 14 engagement marks a significant step toward strengthening transcontinental unity within the Okun nation and reinforcing collective efforts toward security, political inclusion, and socio-economic development.