From left: Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, Odundun II Director General, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, Dr Bashir Jamoh shortly after his crowning as Baatona of Akure Kingdom in Akure, the Ondo State capital at the weekend.

It was a colourful ceremony at the weekend, as the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, Odundun II crowned the Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, Dr Bashir Jamoh as the Baatona of Akure Kingdom.

Minister of State Transport, Prince Ademola Adegoroye who attended the event, said it was in appreciation of Jamoh’s contribution to national development.

Speaking at the colourful ceremony, the Minister of State described Jamoh as a detribalised Nigerian, who is genuinely committed to the development of the nation through the maritime sector. He also appreciated the Deji of Akure for the recognition, adding that it is an expansion of Akure Kingdom.

“Jamoh is a genuinely nice man deserving of the honour Akure Kingdom has conferred on him. I am sure he will expand the frontiers of the Akure Kingdom to Zaria and beyond”, he said.

On his part, the traditional ruler said Jamoh has contributed directly and indirectly to the development of Akure Kingdom, hence the title Baatona, which means “Pathfinder”. “We have followed with keen interest the activities of Jamoh and we have no doubt that he will greatly assist in the development of Akure Kingdom.

In his acceptance speech, the newly crowned Baatona of Akure Kingdom, Jamoh, extolled the values of the people of Akure, describing them as very hospitable, adding that he is proud to be associated with the King of the revered Kingdom and the entire Akure people.

“I sincerely wish to appreciate this gesture extended to me as the Baatona of this Kingdom; I pledge my commitment to the good people of Akure and wish to state that regardless of tribe or religion, I will do all within my capacity to add value to the Kingdom”, Jamoh pledged.

Present at a reception hosted in honour of the DG NIMASA by the Minister of State Transport were Governor of Ondo State, Rotimi Akeredolu SAN, the Deputy Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa and other eminent Nigerians.