In a momentous visit blending family heritage with tradition and legacy, the South West Chieftain of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, on Thursday, June 19, paid a courtesy visit to the patriarch of his father’s lineage, Chief Bode Amoo, the revered industrialist and Chairman of Bode Foams —at the residence in Ibadan, Oyo State.
Chief Bode Amoo stands as a towering figure not only in Ibadan’s illustrious history but also within the distinguished Amoo family. As the elder brother to the late Ajadi SOLA-WEST of Ibadan, a highlife musician—father of Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo—Chief Amoo has long held the torch of family integrity, discipline, and purposeful leadership. He is more than a patriarch; he is a living testament to the values that have guided generations of the Amoo family and inspired broader societal development.
A renowned industrialist and business magnate, Chief Amoo carved his name into Nigeria’s economic narrative by becoming the first Nigerian to introduce the Sony President brand into the country. Through his leadership as Chairman of Bode Foams, he played a pivotal role in boosting indigenous manufacturing, creating employment opportunities, and fostering entrepreneurship long before it became a mainstream policy.
Beyond business, Chief Amoo is celebrated for his extensive social contributions. As a two-time leader of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII)—first as President and now as President-General—his tenure has been marked by unity, innovation, and infrastructural progress for Ibadanland. His leadership within the CCII has left a legacy of peace, purposeful dialogue, and cultural preservation, earning deep respect across Oyo State and beyond.
To the Amoo family, he is the steadfast elder who has upheld the bond of kinship through consistency, godly counsel, and visible commitment to the wellbeing of the clan. His quiet investments in education, moral discipline, and youth mentorship have earned him reverence from both his contemporaries and the younger generation.
As the elder brother to the late Ajadi, Chief Bode Amoo played a foundational role in shaping the values and future of the next generation—including his nephew, Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, who today embodies the family’s enduring legacy of integrity and service to humanity. The values Ajadi demonstrates in politics—truthfulness, godliness, and philanthropy—are, in no small measure, rooted in the moral heritage sustained by Chief Amoo.
At over 90 years old, Chief Amoo remains a national symbol of elder statesmanship, entrepreneurial excellence, and family-centered leadership. His life is a continuous story of how personal discipline and a sense of communal duty can shape history.
The meeting was not just familial—it became a convergence of history, vision, and counsel, as Chief Amoo offered fatherly advice and political blessings to Ajadi.
LEGACY MEETS LEADERSHIP
Chief Amoo shared personal anecdotes from his leadership journey, emphasizing that he never sought power for selfish gain. “The day I agreed to become the president, I was elected unopposed. I told them someone else should be given the opportunity, but they insisted,” Amoo recalled.
He noted that Ajadi’s character aligns with the legacy of integrity that defines their lineage. “A good name is better than gold and silver, and that has always been my legacy. I’m happy that you’re upholding that,” he added.
A CALL FOR GOD-FEARING LEADERSHIP
Chief Amoo lamented the state of Nigeria’s economy. “Many white-owned companies are leaving the country due to the moribund economy. We pray that Almighty God helps us in reviving the bad occurrences into good ones.”
His prayer was heartfelt and clear: “May Almighty God grant peace in Ibadan, Oyo State, and the entire land.”
He also expressed satisfaction upon hearing positive reports about Ajadi. “Ajadi, continue in what you are known for—a politician with the fear of God and reliable promises.”
AJADI RESPONDS WITH HUMILITY
In response, Ambassador Ajadi expressed gratitude for the warm reception and words of wisdom, pledging to live up to the expectations placed upon him.
“Chief Bode Amoo is not just a family head; he is a symbol of discipline, entrepreneurship, and public service. To receive his blessing and advice is a great honour,” Ajadi said.
Known for his grassroots engagement and youth development advocacy, Ajadi is increasingly seen as a rising political figure in South West Nigeria. He has maintained a reputation for transparency, philanthropy, and a pro-people ideology through his initiatives in both the private and political sectors.
DIGNITARIES IN ATTENDANCE
Prominent individuals who accompanied Ajadi included Comrade Kilamuwaye Badmus Bako, the NNPP South West Public Relations Officer, and Hon. Kehinde Teluwo, the party’s 2023 Ogun Central Senatorial candidate.