The ancient town of Ilaro-Yewa, headquarters of Ogun West Senatorial District, came alive on Saturday, January 3, 2026, as Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola (Yayi), representing Ogun West at the National Assembly, hosted eminent personalities to his 22nd End-of-Year/Thanksgiving Service.
The thanksgiving, held at the Cathedral Church of Christ, Ilaro-Yewa, Ogun State, drew a large gathering of political leaders, traditional rulers, clergy, captains of industry, associates, supporters and well-wishers from across the country.
Widely described as carnival-like and the talk of the town, the service blended deep spiritual reflection with joyful worship, heartfelt gratitude and a grand reception befitting the stature of the celebrant.
From the early hours of the day, Ilaro-Yewa wore a festive outlook as hymns, prayers and songs of praise filled the air, celebrating God’s faithfulness in the life and political journey of Senator Adeola Yayi.
Delivering the sermon, the Diocesan Bishop of Yewa, Anglican Communion, Rt. Revd. Michael Adebayo Oluwarohunbi, PhD, congratulated the Senator on the successful hosting of another thanksgiving service, describing it as a celebration of divine preservation, good health and increasing responsibility.
The Bishop noted that many people had passed on or were battling serious health challenges since the last thanksgiving, stressing that God spared Senator Adeola, his family and loved ones, granting them the grace to witness another season of gratitude.
He described thanksgiving as a divine principle that attracts greater blessings, declaring that gratitude remains foundational to divine guidance and endorsement.
Speaking on the theme, “Gratitude That Will Raise Endorsement,” Rt. Revd. Oluwarohunbi urged the Senator to remain intentional about thanksgiving and to continually acknowledge God in all his endeavours.
Preaching from Luke Chapter 3 and 1 Kings 3:1–15, the Bishop commended Senator Adeola Yayi as a diligent public servant and good ambassador who has consistently served humanity, noting that his culture of gratitude has remained the secret behind his success.
He also praised the Senator’s inclusive style of governance and delivery of dividends of democracy across Ogun State, calling on other public office holders to emulate his example.
In his address, Senator Adeola Yayi expressed profound gratitude to Almighty God for His mercy, guidance and blessings throughout his political journey, reaffirming his commitment to serving his constituents and humanity.
He particularly appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whom he described as a mentor and pillar of support.
“I thank God for His kindness and mercy since I started my political journey, and I appreciate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his tutelage and unwavering support,” the Senator said, praying for continued divine guidance for the President.
Senator Adeola Yayi commended President Tinubu’s economic reforms, expressing optimism that Nigerians would soon feel the full benefits. He noted projections of economic growth and easing inflation, adding that policies such as tax harmonisation and fuel subsidy removal, though challenging, were aimed at long-term national prosperity.
He also lauded Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, CON, for transformative projects including the Gateway International Airport and the Seaport, which he said have boosted the state’s economy.
The Senator further thanked traditional rulers, especially the Olu of Ilaro and Paramount Ruler of Yewaland, Oba (Dr.) Kehinde Gbadewole Olugbenle, political leaders, associates and supporters for their steadfast loyalty.
The service climaxed with Senator Adeola Yayi and his family leading the congregation in a joyful procession to the altar for prayers and thanksgiving, as the church resonated with songs of praise.
Festivities later moved to the Asade Agunloye Pavilion, where guests were treated to a grand reception.
In his post-event message, the Senator returned all glory to God and thanked everyone who contributed to the success of the thanksgiving, reaffirming his commitment to effective and exceptional representation.
The massive turnout at both the church service and reception underscored Senator Adeola Yayi’s influence and popularity within Ogun West and beyond, making the 22nd Thanksgiving Service a powerful testimony of faith, gratitude and dedication to good governance.