Lagelu FM at 10: A Decade of Indigenous Broadcasting Excellence
By Temilade Aloko
The heartbeat of Ibadan’s airwaves, Lagelu 96.7 FM, recently rolled out the drums to celebrate its 10th anniversary — a decade of inspiring, educating, and entertaining the people through authentic Yoruba broadcasting.
The weeklong celebration marking the 10th Anniversary of Lagelu FM began with a spiritual opening — a special prayer session at Ojaba Central Mosque, where management and staff gathered to thank God for a decade of impactful broadcasting and to seek blessings for the years ahead and came to a colorful climax on Friday, October 24, 2025, with a grand celebration and award night held at Mauve 21 Event Centre, Ring Road, Ibadan.
A Week of Giving Back and Connecting with the People
True to its community-driven spirit, Lagelu FM didn’t just celebrate on air — it took the joy to the streets. The station organized a series of empowering and humanitarian activities that touched lives across Ibadan.
These included:
- Free Health Outreach: Residents benefited from medical check-ups, health education, and consultations facilitated by volunteer doctors and health professionals.
- Free Food Giveaways: Listeners received free food packages as a gesture of appreciation from the station.
- Free Business Promotions: Small business owners were given free airtime slots to advertise their brands, showcasing Lagelu FM’s commitment to supporting local entrepreneurship.
- Programme Swap Edition: On-air personalities swapped shows for a day, adding laughter and fun to the celebration week as fans enjoyed hearing their favorite presenters in new roles.
These community-centered events reflected Lagelu FM’s core values — service, compassion, and connection to its audience.
Celebrating Excellence and Cultural Impact
Speaking at the event, His Royal Majesty, Oba Murtala Adebayo Akande, MFR, the Ekerin Olubadan of Ibadanland and Founder/Proprietor of West Midlands Communications and West Midlands Open University, described the 10th anniversary as “a day of pride, reflection, and gratitude.”
He recalled how Lagelu FM was established ten years ago with a bold vision to give a voice to the people of Ibadan — to celebrate heritage, strengthen community identity, and build a platform that not only entertains but uplifts.
“Lagelu FM has become more than a frequency on the dial; it has become a movement — a bridge between generations and a beacon of authentic Yoruba expression,” Oba Akande said.
He extended appreciation to the management, presenters, and loyal listeners who have carried the heart of Ibadan through the airwaves to homes across the Southwest and beyond.
A Story of Purpose and Passion
In her remarks, Mrs. Atinuke Adetunji, MD/CEO of West Midlands Communications Limited, expressed deep gratitude and pride in the journey so far.
“When purpose meets passion, even the airwaves can become instruments of transformation,” she said.
She noted that Lagelu FM’s success rests on its unwavering commitment to excellence, creativity, and authenticity — values that have shaped it into a model for indigenous broadcasting in Nigeria.
Mrs. Adetunji also emphasized that the next chapter of Lagelu’s journey will focus on digital expansion, deeper audience engagement, and continued cultural relevance, describing the listeners as “the heartbeat of Lagelu FM.”
Born Out of Conviction, Not Competition
The General Manager of Operations for Lagelu FM and Splash FM, Mr. Tunde Olawuwo, reflected on the station’s humble beginnings and the skepticism it faced when it first launched.
“When Lagelu FM first hit the airwaves, many asked — ‘Why another station when Splash FM already leads the way?’ But Lagelu FM was not born out of competition; it was born out of conviction,” he affirmed.
He explained that while Splash FM spoke the language of excellence, Lagelu FM was created to speak the language of the people — to tell stories in the Yoruba tongue with journalistic depth and cultural pride.
Olawuwo specially appreciated Mr. Kenneth Ugwueje (KBoogie), Head of Programmes, for his creativity and commitment, and praised the entire Lagelu team — presenters, producers, engineers, and support staff — saying:
“You have not just worked; you have built a legacy.”
Awards, Music, and Memorable Moments
The night also featured the presentation of the Special Lagelu Awards, honoring eminent personalities who have supported the station’s vision over the years.
Award recipients included:
- Chief (Mrs.) Florence Ajimobi, Former First Lady of Oyo State
- Hon. Dhikrulahi Stanley Odidiomo
- Hon. Remi Oseni
- Mr. Bimbo Adekanbi
- Alhaji Rashidi Ayinde (Merenge)
- Evangelist Jibola Ogunkeyede (UFITFLY)
- Yeye Alhaja Folashade Azeezat Abeo Nurudeen (Convener/Grand Matron, MATAN)
- Chief Mutiu Atanda Adetunji
- OKIKIJESU CONSTRUCTION
A major highlight of the evening was the Lifetime Radio Legend Award presented to Alhaji Kola Olootu (Mogaji Kola Olootu), who shared an emotional story of how Lagelu FM came to his rescue when he was almost pushed out of radio.
“Lagelu gave me another chance to do what I love most — to speak for the people,” he said, to a thunderous ovation.
Presenters who have served with the station since its inception were also honored for their dedication and loyalty.
Musical performances by Alhaji Taye Akande Adebisi (Currency) and Alhaji Babatunde Musiliu Haruna Ishola kept the celebration lively, blending rich Yoruba rhythms with the joy of the occasion.
A Thanksgiving to Seal the Celebration
The anniversary celebration continues with a special thanksgiving service on Sunday, October 26, 2025, at St. Anne’s Church, Molete, Ibadan, where staff, friends, and partners will gather to give thanks for a decade of growth and impact.
A Decade Down, Forever to Go
In commemoration of this milestone, Lagelu FM reaffirmed its mission to continue promoting indigenous content that uplifts the socio-cultural fabric of the people.
From its inception to this golden moment, Lagelu FM has proven that consistency, integrity, and cultural pride remain timeless virtues in broadcasting.
Ten years on, Lagelu FM stands not just as a radio station but as a movement — the true voice of Ibadanland.
As the journey continues, one thing is clear: the voice of Lagelu FM will keep echoing louder, prouder, and stronger for generations to come.
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