By James Olaoluwa
Nigerian entrepreneur and philanthropist, Chief Ibrahim Dende Egungbohun, popularly known as IBD Dende, has received international recognition as an Honorary Citizen of the State of Georgia, United States, in acknowledgement of his contributions to entrepreneurship, philanthropy, economic development, and community service.
The honour, conferred through Georgia Senate District 28 under the leadership of Senator Dr. Donzella James on Tuesday, the 14th day of July, 2026, during an official legislative session, following a Special Commendation dated 1st day of December, 2025 recognising Chief Egungbohun’s lifetime leadership, humanitarian commitment, and positive impact on communities in Nigeria and beyond.
Senator Donzella James is an American politician and one of Georgia’s longest-serving Democratic lawmakers.
She previously represented Georgia’s 35th Senate District before redistricting and currently serves as the Senator representing Georgia Senate District 28.
She earned a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice and Political Science from Morris Brown College and has built a distinguished career in public service and legislative leadership.
According to the citation, the Senate resolution, as read by Senator James, formally recognised Chief Egungbohun as a goodwill ambassador whose integrity, leadership, and humanitarian service exemplify the ideals of international friendship, cooperation, and community development.
The legislative honour from the Georgia State Senate marks another milestone in the career of the Ogun State-born businessman, whose journey from modest beginnings to becoming one of Nigeria’s leading indigenous entrepreneurs has been defined by resilience, enterprise, and social impact.
Accepting the award, Chief Egungbohun expressed his deep gratitude to Senator James, the Georgia State Senate, and the citizens of Atlanta, reaffirming his lifelong devotion to investing in human capital, facilitating global trade linkages, and lifting vulnerable communities across the world.
As a native of Ebute-Igbooro, Yewa North Local Government Area of Ogun State, Chief Egungbohun received his primary and secondary education in his hometown before venturing into business.
In 2003, he founded IBD Farms, which has evolved into a conglomerate under IBD IMPEX LTD, comprising IBD, IBD Logistics, IBD International Hotels, IBD Quarry, and IBD Real Estate.
The enterprises have created thousands of direct and indirect employment opportunities while contributing to commercial growth, infrastructure development, and regional economic expansion.
Beyond business, Chief Egungbohun has earned a reputation for philanthropy through the Ibrahim Dende Foundation in Nigeria and IBD Global Impact International in Canada.
Through the organisations, he has supported educational scholarships, healthcare programmes, youth empowerment initiatives, humanitarian interventions, infrastructure development, business mentorship, and assistance for widows and vulnerable families.
His commitment to community development has attracted several recognitions over the years. He was installed as the Oluomo of Yewaland by the Yewa Traditional Council in recognition of his contributions to the socio-economic development of the region.
He has also received several national and international honours, including the Green and White Champion Award, recognition from the City of Brampton, Canada, awards from the Oduduwa Development Initiatives, and other commendations for his leadership and humanitarian service.
Observers say the latest honour by the State of Georgia further underscores his growing international profile and recognises the impact of his entrepreneurial achievements and philanthropic investments across sectors.
Chief Egungbohun’s story continues to resonate with many aspiring entrepreneurs as an example of how determination, strategic leadership, and commitment to community development can transform humble beginnings into lasting national and international impact.
