The glamour and grandeur of the 7th edition of the Southwest Legendary Awards (SLA) 2025 lit up the JM Royal Haven Event Centre, GRA Sagamu, Ogun State, on Thursday, October 9, 2025, as distinguished personalities, royal fathers, and achievers from across the Southwest gathered to celebrate excellence, leadership, and service under the theme “The King’s Edition.”
In his opening speech, the Chief Executive Officer and Convener of the Southwest Legendary Awards, Prince Taiwo Gbadebo, expressed heartfelt gratitude to God and all partners who have supported the vision since inception.
“This is not just another award ceremony,” he said. “It is a celebration of excellence, resilience, leadership, and service. We are gathered to honour those whose impact has illuminated their communities and inspired both living and unborn generations.”
The event’s Chairman of the Day, Hon. Mobolaji Ogunlende, Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Lagos State, was commended by Prince Gbadebo for his leadership and belief in the vision of the awards.
The convener also extended appreciation to the royal fathers, sponsors, and partners whose continuous support has kept the initiative thriving. He particularly lauded DDMC Events, the coordinating body behind the ceremony, for its “creativity, discipline, and commitment” in organizing this year’s edition.
In an emotional moment, Prince Gbadebo paid tribute to his wife, acknowledging her as “a woman of virtue and one of the greatest pillars behind my strength and drive.”
Addressing the awardees, he said, “Tonight, we celebrate your diligence, creativity, humanity, and integrity. You represent the true spirit of the Southwest — bold, industrious, innovative, compassionate, and exceptional.”
Prince Gbadebo also used the occasion to call for more partnerships and sponsorships to sustain and expand the awards’ impact. “Our mission to spotlight achievers, empower communities, and promote development across the Southwest cannot thrive without collective support,” he said.
He urged corporate organizations, philanthropists, and government agencies to invest in the growing legacy of SLA, emphasizing that part of the initiative’s future focus is to reach vulnerable citizens through empowerment and community development programs.
The night featured glitz, cultural display, and recognition of outstanding individuals and organizations that have made notable contributions to the growth and development of the Southwest region.
As the curtains fell, guests were left inspired by the message of excellence and legacy that has defined the Southwest Legendary Awards over the years — a true celebration of greatness sustained through purpose and passion.
