In a momentous ceremony on January 3, 2025, Jake Epelle, the founder and Chief Executive Officer of The Albino Foundation Africa, was bestowed with the prestigious traditional title of Balolo (Early Morning Star) by His Majesty King Dr. Dandeson Douglas Jaja, DSSRS, CFR, Jeki V—Treaty King, Natural Ruler, and Amanyanabo of Opobo. This recognition is a testament to Epelle’s unwavering dedication to service, integrity, and the betterment of society, marking a significant milestone in his journey of advocacy and leadership.
The traditional title of Balolo is one of great honor in Opobo Kingdom, symbolizing a beacon of hope and commitment to community and progress. It is an acknowledgment of those who embody the values of unity, progress, and cultural preservation—qualities that Epelle has consistently demonstrated throughout his career in championing the rights and empowerment of persons with disabilities in Nigeria.
In a heartfelt statement expressing his gratitude, Jake Epelle shared his profound appreciation for the honor. “I am humbled and deeply honored to receive the traditional title of Balolo from His Majesty, King Dr. Dandeson Douglas Jaja, and the esteemed Council of Chiefs,” he said. “This recognition highlights my commitment to service and integrity, and I promise to uphold the values of Opobo Kingdom in all my endeavors. I am profoundly grateful to His Majesty, the Council of Chiefs, and the good people of Opobo Kingdom for this prestigious honor.”
The title of Balolo marks a significant milestone in Epelle’s long-standing advocacy for the rights of persons with disabilities. As a prominent disability rights advocate, his efforts have not only brought awareness to the challenges faced by people with disabilities in Nigeria but have also paved the way for policies and initiatives aimed at improving their lives. Epelle’s work has earned him national and international acclaim, and this traditional recognition by the Opobo Kingdom adds to the many accolades he has received throughout his illustrious career.
In his statement, Epelle also emphasized the importance of unity and collective effort in driving meaningful progress. He called for continued collaboration between individuals, communities, and institutions to build a better, more inclusive society. “May we continue to work together towards meaningful progress, unity, and cultural preservation,” Epelle expressed, highlighting the shared responsibility to safeguard and promote the rich cultural heritage of the Opobo Kingdom.
His Majesty, King Dr. Dandeson Douglas Jaja, who presented the title to Epelle, commended him for his tireless work in advocating for marginalized groups, particularly persons with disabilities. The King praised Epelle’s dedication to serving the greater good, noting that his leadership aligns perfectly with the values of Opobo Kingdom, which celebrates progress, integrity, and community well-being.
The King’s gesture also serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving the cultural legacy of the Opobo Kingdom while embracing modernity and progress. As a community, Opobo Kingdom has always valued service to others, respect for tradition, and the promotion of social justice—all ideals that are reflected in Epelle’s work.
The conferring of the Balolo title is a symbolic gesture that acknowledges Epelle’s contribution to the fight for equality, his efforts to uplift others, and his role as a guiding light for those who have often been marginalized in society. The title further cements his position as a respected leader and advocate for social justice.
Following the announcement, Epelle expressed his deep sense of responsibility in his new role. “I accept this honor with great humility and a deep sense of duty to continue working toward a future where every individual, regardless of their physical abilities, can have an equal opportunity to thrive,” he said.
As part of his vision for a more inclusive society, Epelle has always advocated for the rights of people with disabilities, striving to ensure they are not only recognized but actively integrated into every aspect of social, economic, and political life. His tireless efforts have resulted in numerous initiatives aimed at improving accessibility, education, and employment opportunities for persons with disabilities, empowering them to live more independent and fulfilling lives.
The Balolo title is a reminder that true leadership comes from a deep commitment to service and a willingness to make sacrifices for the betterment of others. For Jake Epelle, the honor is a reflection of his dedication to creating a more inclusive world and ensuring that people with disabilities are afforded the same rights and opportunities as anyone else.
The recognition also highlights the enduring relationship between traditional institutions and modern advocacy movements, where both work together to foster positive change. Through this honor, the Opobo Kingdom has shown its commitment to supporting individuals who are dedicated to the social progress of Nigeria, particularly in the realm of disability rights.
As Jake Epelle embarks on this new chapter of his journey as Balolo, his message remains clear: the work toward equality, inclusivity, and cultural preservation is far from over, but with unity and determination, a brighter future is possible for all.
In closing, Epelle offered a heartfelt prayer for the continued success and prosperity of the Opobo Kingdom: “God bless Opobo Kingdom. God bless us all.”
The title of Balolo represents more than just a ceremonial honor—it is a call to action for all to continue the work of building a more inclusive, fair, and united society. For Epelle, this recognition is a reminder of the power of perseverance, service, and community, and he remains steadfast in his mission to serve those in need, regardless of the challenges ahead.
