What began as an initiative has grown into one of Ibadan’s most anticipated community events, as Pensioners 106.7 FM once again gathered senior citizens, leaders, and stakeholders for a colourful Elders’ Day Outing, reinforcing the station’s enduring commitment to the dignity, welfare, and social inclusion of the elderly.
The fifth edition of the annual celebration, popularly known as Ode Agba, was held at the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP) Hall, Onireke, Ibadan, and was marked by an atmosphere of warmth, excitement, and deep appreciation for senior citizens who have contributed immensely to the growth and development of society.
Senior citizens across Oyo State converged on the venue, turning the outing into a vibrant reunion of experience, wisdom, and shared memories.
Delivering goodwill messages at the event, the Chairman and President-General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Barrister Ajeniyi Ajewole, described the Elders’ Day Outing as a thoughtful and socially responsible initiative that places ageing citizens at the heart of community life.
He noted that honouring elders is not only a moral obligation but also a reflection of a society’s values and respect for its heritage.
In a similar vein, the Oyo State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatubosun, commended Pensioners FM for sustaining a programme that blends culture, care, and celebration. He announced that the Elders’ Day Outing would henceforth be aligned with the state’s Vibing December activities, acknowledging its growing relevance as a cultural and social event in Ibadan’s calendar.
The Chairman of the Oyo State Local Government Staff Pension Board, Hon. Akeem Ige, alongside the lawmaker representing Ibadan North-West State Constituency, Hon. Dawood Olalere, also lauded the organisers for their consistency and dedication to pensioners’ welfare. They urged continued collaboration among stakeholders to ensure that retirees receive the care, recognition, and support they deserve.
Addressing the gathering, the Secretary of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners, Oyo State Council, and Managing Director of Pensioners FM, Comrade Olusegun Abatan, reaffirmed the union’s unwavering commitment to protecting the rights and wellbeing of pensioners.
He described the Elders’ Day Outing as a symbol of hope, unity, and reassurance for senior citizens, while also paying tribute to the late Head of Marketing of the station, Mrs. Afolakemi Odeyemi, whose dedication, he said, laid a strong foundation for the success of the annual event.
The General Manager of Pensioners FM, Dr. Babatunde Tiamiyu, expressed gratitude to pensioners, partners, and supporters for their continued trust in the station.
He assured them that Pensioners FM would remain a strong voice for senior citizens, promoting issues that affect their welfare while fostering inclusive community engagement.
Beyond the speeches, the Elders’ Day Outing came alive with a rich blend of engaging and health-focused activities.
Participants benefited from a free medical outreach, wellness talks on healthy ageing, and interactive sessions designed to promote physical and emotional wellbeing.
Dance performances, quiz competitions, and the presentation of gifts further added colour, excitement, and a festive spirit to the celebration.
A special horse-riding photo experience also provided memorable moments for participants.
The event attracted several notable dignitaries, including the Baale of Onireke, Chief Fatai Aare-Latoosa, the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners, Oyo State Council, Comrade James Osuntade and the Iyaloja of Ibadanland, Chief Iswat Ameringun, whose presence underscored the broad community support for the initiative.
As part of the programme, the planning committee presented an Award of Excellence to Mr. Olatunde Alaragbayida in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the planning, growth, and sustainability of the Elders’ Day Outing.
More than a celebration, the Elders’ Day Outing served as a powerful reminder of the need to continually honour, care for, and celebrate senior citizens.
Through this initiative, Pensioners FM has once again positioned itself as a compassionate, people-centred radio station, dedicated to preserving the dignity of elders and strengthening community bonds in Ibadan and beyond.
