By: Manoah Kikekon
BADAGRY, LAGOS – In a vibrant display of democratic excellence and youthful vigor, the National Association of Badagry Students (NABAS) has officially recorded a successful leadership transition. The momentous event, held on Saturday, March 14, 2026, marked the dawn of a new administrative chapter for the apex student body in the ancient coastal city.
The transition ceremony took place at the hallowed chambers of the Badagry Local Government Secretariat, drawing a diverse crowd of student advocates, political leaders, and academic icons. The atmosphere was thick with anticipation as the association sought to build upon its growing legacy of grassroots intellectualism.
The highlight of the event was the official swearing-in of the new executive council. Comr. Jaiyesimi Mathew Whenayon emerged as the new President, while Rt. Hon. Hunsa Sewedo Oluwatosin was inaugurated as the Speaker of the House. They take over from the outgoing duo of Comr. Gbeyon Ayomide Sewenu and Rt. Hon. Senemede Abel, who were lauded for their resilience in steering the association’s affairs.
In his inaugural remarks, President Whenayon pledged to run an inclusive administration that prioritizes the welfare of every Badagry student, both at home and in the diaspora. He emphasized that his tenure would focus on academic empowerment, digital literacy, and fostering a stronger bond between students and local stakeholders.
Adding a historic dimension to the transition was the official launch of the NABAS Magazine (Maiden Edition). This landmark publication is designed to serve as a repository of the association’s rich heritage, documenting the activities, achievements, and intellectual contributions of Badagry’s finest minds.
The magazine was jointly unveiled by the Executive Chairman of Badagry Local Government, Hon. Babatunde Hunpe, and the Grand Patron of NABAS, Hon. Olusegun Adeniran Onilude. The publication was described as a vital tool for storytelling, ensuring that the strides made by the student union are preserved for future generations.
The Executive Chairman of Badagry Local Government, Hon. Babatunde Hunpe, delivered a powerful keynote address that resonated with the themes of responsibility and sacrifice. Represented at the event, the Chairman congratulated the outgoing team for finishing strong and the new team for their courage to lead.
"Leadership is fundamentally about service and sacrifice," Hunpe remarked. He charged the new executives to remain focused and embrace the spirit of teamwork, noting that a divided house cannot achieve meaningful development. He urged the leadership to be the light that guides their peers toward a better future.
A critical point in the Chairman’s address was the reminder of the primary purpose of being a student. He admonished the members of NABAS to remain dedicated to their academic pursuits. "Ensure that union activities do not become a distraction from your primary responsibilities," he warned, stressing that the true value of a student leader lies in their academic excellence.
The Grand Patron of NABAS and immediate past Chairman of the local government, Hon. Olusegun Adeniran Onilude, expressed deep satisfaction with the progress of the association. He recalled the challenging times when the association was revived during his tenure, noting that seeing it thrive today is a source of immense joy.
He specifically commended the efforts of Hon. Sewede Pot-Balogun, the former Supervisor for Education, and the Caretaker Committee led by Comr. Ajape Abdusomad. Their roles in the resuscitation and strengthening of the association were identified as the foundation upon which the current successes are built.
Hon. Onilude encouraged the Whenayon-led administration to sustain the momentum. "The foundation has been laid; your job is to build a structure that stands the test of time," he said. He assured the students of his continued mentorship and commitment to the growth of NABAS, promising to remain an advocate for their interests at higher levels of governance.