Lagelu FM Celebrates 10 Years of Bridging Culture and Modern Broadcasting
By Adewale Owoade
The Founder and Chairman of West Midlands Communications Limited, His Royal Majesty, Oba Murtala Adebayo Akande, MFR, has declared that Lagelu 96.7 FM, Ibadan’s foremost indigenous radio station, was established to promote Yoruba heritage and give voice to the people, not to compete with other stations.
Oba Akande who is also the Ekerin Olubadan of Ibadanland and Founder of West Midlands Open University stated this during the 10th Anniversary Celebration of Lagelu FM
He celebrated the station’s decade-long journey of impact, describing it as “a fulfilled dream rooted in purpose and culture.
“Our ambition was not merely to compete, but to contribute to the culture, to the economy, and to the conversation that shapes our people.
”Through the dedication of our management, the creativity of our presenters, and the loyalty of our listeners, Lagelu FM has carried the heart of Ibadan into homes and hearts across the southwest and beyond
”As we celebrate this milestone, I extend my deepest appreciation to our entire team from our visionary leadership to our on-air talents, and most importantly, to our listeners who keep the spirit of Lagelu alive every day.
”The journey of ten years reminds us that consistency and integrity are timeless virtues in broadcasting. May Lagelu FM continue to grow stronger, amplifying the true voice of our people for decades to come,” he said
In her remarks, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of West Midlands Communications Limited, Mrs Atinuke Adetunji, praised the station’s evolution as a testament to vision, resilience, and purpose-driven journalism.
“Lagelu FM has proven that when purpose meets passion, even the airwaves can become instruments of transformation,” she said.
“Our commitment to excellence, innovation, and authenticity has shaped the station into a model for indigenous broadcasting in Nigeria. The next decade will be about digital expansion, audience engagement, and deeper community impact.”
She extended appreciation to the Chairman, the management team, and the loyal listeners who, according to her, “remain the heartbeat of Lagelu FM.”
Also speaking, the General Manager, Operations, Mr. Tunde Olawuwo, highlighted the station’s unique identity and enduring relevance.
“When we started, people asked why another station was needed when Splash FM already existed. But Lagelu FM was not born out of competition; it was born out of conviction. Splash spoke the language of excellence; Lagelu came to speak the language of the people,” he said.
The event featured special recognition awards some staffers, On-Air Personality and to notable individuals who have contributed to community development and cultural advancement.
Among the awardees were Hon. Remi Oseni, Abimbola Adekanbi, Princess Folashade Abeo Nurudeen, Rashidi Ayinde Merenge, Femi Adebayo, Ibrahim Chatta, Chief Mutiu Adetunji, and Ajibola Ogunkeyede.
One of the awardees, Hon. Remi Oseni expressed gratitude for the recognition, describing it as an honour that inspires greater service.
“One of the greatest things that can happen to anyone is to be celebrated while alive,” he said.
“Some people know what you do but never acknowledge it; gestures like this motivate one to do even more. I appreciate Lagelu FM for this recognition and their continuous service to the public.”
Also speaking, Abimbola Adekanbi described the award as humbling, noting that “living a modest life and seeing people recognise it encourages us to do more for society.”
The event which featured performances by Apala legend, Haruna Ishola and Fuji artiste, Taye Currency. was graced by dignitaries, media professionals, among others.
