He maintained that those who give up do not go up and anyone destined for greatness must not give up.
Adelakun made the call during the conferment of the Honour of Champion of Ibadan Development award on him by the Central Council of Ibadan Indigene (CCII).
The presentation ceremony, which took place at the Wonder City, opposite Dominion University, Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, was in recognition of Adelakun’s significant contributions to the city’s growth and progress.
The President-General of CCII, Chief Ajewole Ajeniyi, led other executive members of the council to present the award to the bishop.
Adelakun said: “Never give up. Those who give up don’t go up. If you are not going to go up, then you can give up easily. Challenges will come, situations and circumstances that are negative will come, but hold on to God; hold on to His word.”
He expressed gratitude to CCII for the recognition, describing it as an encouragement to continue contributing to the growth of Ibadan.
He attributed his achievements to God’s grace and the collective support of individuals and institutions.
“This honour is not mine alone; it belongs to God and to everyone who has contributed to Ibadan’s development in one way or another,” he said.
Adelakun’s wife, Dolapo, also an indigene of Ibadan, expressed gratitude for the award, and prayed for the continued progress of the city.
In his remarks, the Vice Chancellor, Dominion University, Prof. Abel Olorunnisola, lauded Adelakun’s passion for education and community service.
Also, Pastor Niyi Dahunsi described Adelakun as a leader whose influence transcends the church, saying: “His impact touches lives and transforms society. His love for God and for people is evident in his commitment to social responsibility and humanitarian efforts.”
Pastor Olusoji Adediji also lauded Adelakun’s dedication to spiritual and societal development, acknowledging his role in fostering education, leadership, and economic growth.
Earlier, the Chairman of 2025 Ibadan Cultural Festival Planning Committee, Alhaji Abiola Alli, commended the bishop’s contributions, saying, “Bishop Adelakun has uplifted Ibadan and its people.”
