By: Deborah Adene
On September 21, 2025, the Junior Chamber International Nigeria, University of Ibadan (JCIN UI) Local Organization hosted its 7th General Assembly for the 2025 LO year, doubling as an induction and oath-taking ceremony for new members at the Faculty of Social Science’s Large Lecture Theatre.
The event themed “Becoming the Leaders We Declare to Be”, was a celebration of service, growth, and the enduring values of Junior Chamber International Nigeria, University of Ibadan (JCIN UI).
The Assembly officially commenced at 2:47 PM, with Local Organization President (LOP) Taiwo Olanlesi Odusote calling the house to order. Members stood to recite the JCI Creed, after which the General Legal Counsel certified the quorum. In the absence of the General Secretary, the Assistant General Secretary adopted the minutes of the previous assembly, ensuring business could proceed seamlessly.
The Directorate of Communication and External Relations presented their plan of action for the LO year and what they had achieved so far. Following brief deliberations and minor adjustments, the plan was adopted as amended.
The Chairperson of JCIN UI Week and the chairperson for the Voices of Tomorrow secondary school debate presented their progress reports detailing their activities for the LO year so far. Impressively, both offices were met with enthusiastic applause and commendations for their commitment and performance.
The assembly was graced by a host of respected JCIN dignitaries which included our trainer, JCIN Ambassador Lanre Alawode (National Vice President North East, District 1, JCI Nigeria), the theme Speaker JCIN Councilor Ojo Waheed (2023 Local Organisation President, JCIN UI) JCIN Cllr. Gbemileke Onifade (Immediate Past President, JCIN UI) , JCIN Cllr. Fareedah Oladejo (2022 Local Organisation President, JCIN UI), JCIN Cllr. Rosheedah Adeleke (2024 Executive Vice President female, JCIN UI), JCIN Cllr. Saoban Adeleke Raheem (2024 Executive Vice President male, JCIN UI) among others. The event’s prestige was further elevated by the presence of whose attendance underscored the day’s importance.
Delivering his theme address, Cllr. Ojo Waheed explored the core of authentic leadership, emphasizing that leadership reveals itself in small, consistent acts rather than only in grand gestures. He reminded members that growth requires sacrifice, emotional intelligence, and emotional maturity, and is a continuous process.
A memorable highlight came when he projected throwback and present photos of JCIN UI leaders, drawing laughter from the audience while prompting reflection on growth and transformation. “JCI is a laboratory,” he said. “You can go in to make experiments.”
Following the keynote, JCIN Amb. Lanre Alawode delivered a detailed, line-by-line breakdown of the JCI Creed, helping members, both old and new gain a deeper understanding of the values they pledge to uphold.
The energy in the room shifted as intending JCIN UI members presented their projects in groups. Each presentation was carefully evaluated, scored, and corrected, with the best-performing group receiving an award for their outstanding effort.
Once their financial status was verified, the new members stood before their peers to take the oath of membership, officially joining the noble ranks of JCIN UI. They were warmly received with applause and words of encouragement from senior members.
The turnout for the Assembly was remarkably impressive, a proof of the commitment and enthusiasm of JCIN UI’s members. By a few minutes past 7:00 PM, the General Assembly was brought to a close; not without the Local Organisation President reminding everyone of the upcoming National Conference. The session concluded with the collective recitation of JCIN’s mission and vision, sealing a day marked by learning, laughter, and legacy.
The 7th General Assembly did more than induct new members, it reaffirmed JCIN UI’s pledge to develop ethical, emotionally intelligent leaders who embody the very principles they champion. In the words of the day’s theme, JCIN UI continues “Becoming the Leaders We Declare to Be.”