Akran of Badagry Bestows Awushe Title on Dr. Olaide-Mesewaku

By Dansu Goldmark Pentho  In a colourful and historic ceremony held at the Akran’s Palace on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, His Majesty, De Wheno ...

By Dansu Goldmark Pentho 

In a colourful and historic ceremony held at the Akran’s Palace on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, His Majesty, De Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I, the Akran of Badagry, conferred the revered chieftaincy title of Awushe of Badagry Kingdom on Chief (Dr.) Babatunde Olaide-Mesewaku. The event formed part of the activities marking the 48th coronation anniversary of the monarch’s reign.

The prestigious title is in recognition of Dr. Mesewaku’s unwavering commitment to the development of Badagry and his global efforts in promoting African cultural identity. A distinguished academic, public administrator, and tourism expert, Dr. Mesewaku is widely respected for his pioneering contributions to Diaspora and Transnational Studies.

Among his notable accomplishments are: earning the distinction of being the first PhD graduate from the Diaspora and Transnational Studies Programme at the Institute of African Studies, University of Ibadan; authoring seminal works such as "Vothuno (The Chief Priest of Badagry)"; serving as Permanent Secretary in the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture; and leading the African Renaissance Foundation as its President. He also co-organises the renowned Badagry Diaspora Festival International.

The conferment of the Awushe title serves as a deserving honour for Dr. Mesewaku’s tireless efforts in preserving Badagry’s rich cultural legacy and advancing the African narrative on the global stage.

Photo Credit: CityMood Badagry