It was a moment of gratitude, inspiration, and celebration of true leadership as Dr. Adeola Adebisi Banjo, former Chairman of Ikorodu North Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Lagos State, presented a commemorative frame titled “By Their Hands, We Rose” in honour of Rep. Babajimi Adegoke Benson, Member House of Representatives Ikorodu Federal Constituency.

The symbolic presentation, witnessed by dignitaries, political leaders, and community members, celebrated Rep. Benson’s exemplary record of service, compassion, and development-oriented leadership across Ikorodu Division and beyond.

In his speech, Dr. Banjo said the occasion was not about parting words but about gratitude and recognition for genuine service. “Today, I stand before you not as one who speaks of power, but as one who has been privileged to witness its purest form — service,” he began, reflecting on his tenure as council chairman and the inspiration he drew from Rep. Benson’s leadership.

He described Rep. Benson as a leader whose impact transcends politics, a man “whose presence feels like prophecy.” According to him, Benson’s leadership embodies conviction, compassion, and humility — the true marks of statesmanship. “Your life has become a parable of what leadership should look like — when it serves and not shouts, when it listens and not lords, when it heals and not hurries,” Dr. Banjo said.

He went on to highlight Rep. Benson’s far-reaching contributions across Ikorodu communities — from Isiwu, Imota to Ijede and Baiyeku noting that his developmental projects and empowerment initiatives have redefined grassroots representation. “He lit lamps where our paths had forgotten light. He gave our elders bread and dignity. He brought governance down from the clouds and made it sit among the people in their homes, markets, and weary sighs,” he said to loud applause.

Explaining the significance of the frame, Dr. Banjo noted that “By Their Hands, We Rose” was conceived as a heartfelt declaration of appreciation for those whose service uplifted others. “This frame is not merely a decoration but a declaration that we recognize the hands that helped us rise,” he said.

He further commended Rep. Benson’s quiet yet profound impact, describing him as a man driven not by applause but by accountability. “You did not chase credit; you chased impact. You led with the quiet fire of one who is Extremely Resilient, Extra Resourceful, and Efficiently Responsible,” he said.

Dr. Banjo concluded his presentation with a powerful message of gratitude and hope. “Thank you for standing up when it mattered. Thank you for showing us that service is still sacred and greatness still possible. Thank you for rising and in doing so, helping us rise,” he declared, as he formally handed the frame to Rep. Benson amid a standing ovation.

Adding to the event’s significance, Babatunde Olowu delivered a speech titled “The Spirit of ER and the Forthcoming Unveiling of JB as the Face of ER Nigeria.” He described ER short for Edge Rate as a philosophy that celebrates excellence, resilience, and responsibility, values he said are personified by Rep. Benson.

“ER is not a borrowed idea; it was born here in our striving, our sweat, and our unbroken spirit. It is courage in motion, character at work, and conscience made visible. In Representative Babajimi Benson, ER has found a face,” Olowu declared.

He announced that Rep. Babajimi Adegoke Benson will soon be unveiled as the Face of ER in Nigeria at a grand event that will also feature the launch of a new book titled “We Know He Cares: How JB Proved It in Law, Projects, and People,” alongside a full orchestral performance of the newly revised Asiwaju’s Anthem in his honour.

Olowu described JB as “a man extremely resilient, exceptionally rational, ethically respected, eloquently revolutionary, and endlessly reliable,” noting that his service has redefined public representation in modern Nigeria.

The event concluded with applause and tributes from attendees who hailed both Dr. Banjo and Rep. Benson as models of integrity, humility, and community-driven leadership.

The gathering was graced by Builder Olusesan Daini, former Chairman of Igbogbo-Baiyeku LCDA;Hon. Niyi Odugbesi, former SLG, Hon. Balikis Aderoju Ibrahim, Hon. Ambali Olutusin, Hon. Basirat Babatunde; Comrade Adekoya Tunde; Ikorodu North’s Women Leaders; Prince Abiodun Banjo; and Mr. Babatunde Olowu, among others.