In a momentous ceremony held at the highbrow Radisson Blu Hotel in GRA, Ikeja, High Chief Ibrahim Dende Egungbohun, widely recognized as IBD Dende, received an illustrious Award of Excellence presented by the City of Brampton, Canada.
This prestigious recognition highlights his outstanding contributions to philanthropy, empowerment, and entrepreneurial development in Nigeria, affirming the profound impact he has made on countless lives through his IBD Foundation.
The event was graced by a formal delegation representing the Mayor of Brampton, His Lordship Mayor Patrick Brown, led by Mr. Richard Forward, the Senior Manager of the Financial Advisory Budget Office. During the award presentation, the delegation emphasized Brampton’s dedication to cultivating international partnerships with distinguished leaders like IBD Dende, who is renowned for his philanthropy and unwavering commitment to improving the lives of those in need.
The award acknowledged Dende’s extensive philanthropic initiatives, particularly through his IBD Foundation, which has spearheaded transformative projects in various communities throughout Lagos and Ogun States. The recognition also included a formal commendation letter sealed by Mayor Brown, praising Dende’s tireless efforts in economic development, community growth, and his active support for the recently concluded African Made Economic Growth Initiative (AMEGI) in Canada, a significant event that was attended by his wife, Mrs. Omolara Egungbohun.
During the ceremony, Mayor Brown’s representatives delivered a poignant message regarding the importance of recognizing impactful figures within the community, noting, “With a vibrant Nigerian community of approximately 12,000 residents in Brampton, it is vital to spotlight individuals like Chief Dende who are making a tangible difference in the welfare of others.” This statement illustrates Dende’s role as a beacon of hope and progress within the Nigerian diaspora.
The distinguished delegation included Mr. Imadu Maurice, an adviser and community engagement specialist from the Mayor’s Office, and Mrs. Kehinde Adelaja-Okoroafor, Founder of the Make Mee Elegant Foundation. Both speakers highlighted Dende’s deep compassion for the marginalized and his relentless drive to empower them through various initiatives.
As a gesture of ongoing collaboration and mutual support, Mayor Brown extended a warm invitation to Chief Ibrahim to participate in next year’s AMEGI event, set to be hosted by the City of Brampton. This event aims not only to strengthen economic ties but also to empower one thousand women, celebrating the rich contributions of the African diaspora to Canadian society.
Upon receiving the award, Chief Dende articulated his commitment to philanthropy, emphasizing how he has consistently demonstrated his wealth through substantial investments in empowerment initiatives, particularly benefitting the people of Yewa land. He praised Mayor Brown and his administration for their commendable efforts in making Brampton one of the finest cities in Canada, stating, “Your hands-on leadership in championing the Brampton Youth Empowerment Initiative, alongside the recent Affordable Housing Expansion Program, exemplifies public service that truly uplifts its citizens in real time.”
Dende further expressed his enthusiasm for deepening collaborative efforts with the residents of Brampton, especially during his upcoming visit to Canada next year. He hopes to extend his philanthropic and developmental programs to the city, thereby supporting local initiatives and fostering shared prosperity.
“Through the IBD Foundation, our mission remains clear: to restore essential human amenities to communities where they have been lost and to create opportunities where none currently exist. We have invested heavily in educational sponsorships, healthcare interventions, humanitarian relief, rural development, and initiatives to support women-led entrepreneurial ventures. Over the years, we have provided thousands of essential medical treatments, delivered millions of meals to those in need, and supported youth who require encouragement and belief in their potential,” Dende articulated passionately.
For Ibrahim Dende Egungbohun, receiving this honour signifies not only individual achievement but also reflects the strengthening diplomatic and economic ties between Canadian institutions and Nigerian leaders dedicated to societal improvement and resilience. It stands as a powerful reminder of what can be accomplished when people come together to uplift their communities.
