I am profoundly humbled by the resounding success of our town hall meeting, book launch, and fundraising event in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, on Saturday, August 30, 2025.
This gathering, hosted at the heart of the Nigerian-Australian community, brought together important Oyo State indigenes and Nigerians from various ethnic backgrounds, all united in their endorsement of my gubernatorial aspiration under the All Progressives Congress (APC). The event, marking the first stop in my global consultation tour, was a demonstration of solidarity, with attendees affirming their belief in my vision for a transparent, inclusive, and forward-thinking leadership for Oyo State in 2027.
The humility I feel from this wide and general support is immense, as individuals and groups from diverse walks of life came together to stand by me and this vision.
The general endorsement was a heartfelt affirmation, and it reflected a shared aspiration for a stronger Oyo State and Nigeria. This unity was palpable, it transcend ethnic lines and showcased the diversity of our people.
It was a moment that reinforced my resolve, knowing that such backing comes from a genuine place of hope and trust. The event’s success, blending a town hall discussion, the launch of my book on good governance and my manifesto, and fundraising efforts, highlighted the collective commitment to our state’s progress.
I must specially recognise and appreciate the key supporters who made this event possible. Ambassador Adeniyi Ekine initiated the gathering and generously supported it a lot. Dr. Adebukola Ojediran provided invaluable behind-the-scenes support as CEO of Elizabeth Seeds.
Elder Matthew Adetifa mobilised the full support of Yoruba Elders in Victoria, offering strength as past President of the Yoruba Heritage and Cultural Association of Victoria (YHCAV). Mama Mrs. Alabi, whom I had never met in person but showed her motherly love.
Comrade Juwon diligently contributed brilliantly and mobilised a number of attendees. To everyone present, your ideas, encouragement, and financial contributions moved this agenda forward—you are the heart of this mission.
Our distinguished VIPs added immense value to the occasion, and I am deeply honoured by their presence. Dr. Amb. Moses G. Adepoju, past President of the Ibadan Progressive Association of Australia (IPAA), served as Chairman of the Day. Dr. Adebukola Juliana Ojediran chaired the event with grace.
Mr. Elvis Nwachukwu, President of the Igbo Association of Victoria, acted as Father of the Day, while Hajia Fatimah Mahmoud, President of the Nigerian Arewa Association of Australia & New Zealand, was Mother of the Day. Elder Matthew Adetifa, as Chief Panelist, guided discussions insightfully. Comrade Wale Olaitan (past President, YHCAV), Mr. Kayode Adediran, Dr. Akinbiyi Family and our incoming Senator from Oyo Central, Alhaji Ademola Wasiu Ali (AWA) also lent their support.
Their attendance reflected Nigeria’s great diversity and our shared hope for a better tomorrow. Additionally, the invited communities; the Yoruba, Igbo, Arewa/Northern Nigerian, and wider Nigerian-Australian groups, honoured us with their presence, embodying unity and cultural pride.
I extend my sincere thanks to all participants for their generous donations and ongoing support, which will propel our efforts in grassroots mobilisation and community initiatives across Oyo State.
These contributions, both financial and in-kind, underscore an investment in our vision for progress, and I assure you they will be utilised with utmost transparency and efficiency.
This outpouring of generosity further humbles me, as it signals a collective dedication to elevate Oyo State. The funds raised will directly support upcoming events and campaigns, strengthening our movement and ensuring that every voice contributes to our shared goals.
Looking forward, I am highly optimistic about the upcoming engagements in this series, continuing with the town hall in New South Wales, Australia, on October 25, 2025, followed by gatherings in the United Kingdom and other parts of Europe.
These forums will build on the momentum from Victoria, facilitating further dialogue with the diaspora to refine our approach and secure broader partnerships.
The success in Melbourne inspires confidence that these events will yield even stronger endorsements and collaborations, uniting us in our pursuit of excellence for Oyo State.
I invite all interested parties to join us and seek your continued involvement, as your presence and input are essential to this collaborative endeavour. God bless you all, God bless Oyo State, and God bless Nigeria.
Dr. Adewale Kolapo Kareem (AKK)
Oyo State APC Gubernatorial Aspirant
APC, PROGRESS!
Oyo 2027
AKK 2027
Governor 2027
AKK! Aseyori ni tiwa.
AKK!! Ajose Ajoje
AKK!!! A Task that must be done.
Monday, September 1, 2025.
