On April 8, 2023, the Nubian Jak Community Trust (NJCT) organized a plaque unveiling ceremony and reception at the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea in honor of the late Olorogun Michael C. O. Ibru. Ibru was a renowned Nigerian businessman and philanthropist who made significant contributions to the Nigerian and global business communities. The event was attended by family members, friends, business associates, and dignitaries from Nigeria and the United Kingdom.
NJCT is a commemorative plaque and sculpture scheme focused on memorializing the historic contributions of Black and minority ethnic people. The ceremony was hosted by Dr. Jak Beula, who served as the Master of Ceremonies. The event commenced with an opening prayer by The Reverend Canon Dr. William Taylor, followed by a welcome address by The Worshipful Mayor Cllr David Linsey. He expressed gratitude to everyone present and highlighted the importance of Ibru’s contribution to society.
Mr. Obaro Ibru, a member of the Ibru family, delivered a touching tribute in memory of his late father. His Excellency Ambassador Sarafa Tunji Isola, the Nigerian High Commissioner for the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland, represented by Mrs. Remi Onasanya, was invited to deliver a tribute. Olorogun Ejiro Ughwujabo, National President of Urhobo Progress Union, United Kingdom, also paid tribute to honor Ibru’s contributions to the Urhobo community.
Other attendees who paid tribute to Ibru at the unveiling ceremony included The Rt Hon Felicity Buchan, MP for Kensington; Emma Dent Coad, Cllr. Joana Gardener, and Cllr. Dori Schmetterling speaking on behalf of the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea.
The ceremony concluded with a Closing Address by Mr. Mamemo Ibru, who thanked everyone for honoring his late father. Then, Miss Francesca Chiejina sang the Nigerian National Anthem, after which the Plaque was unveiled by Dr. Mrs. Cecilia Ibru and The Worshipful Mayor of the Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea.
Nubian Jak Community Trust Blue Plaque honours Chief Michael Ibru
Guests were thereafter chaperoned to a reception venue at The Dorchester, where The Right Reverend Bishop Michael Steele delivered a Prayer of Thanks. Olorogun Nero Ughwujabo, Senior Strategy Adviser at the Prince’s Trust, delivered a speech on Ibru’s impact on the Nigerian business community.
Dr. Jak Beula delivered the closing remarks and a vote of thanks, expressing appreciation to everyone who attended the event and contributed to its success. The Plaque Unveiling Ceremony and Reception in honor of Olorogun Michael Ibru was a fitting tribute to a man who made significant contributions to the Nigerian and global business communities. The event successfully brought together family members, friends, business associates, and dignitaries to celebrate Ibru’s life and legacy.
