By Ibikunle ‘Kayode’
Obafemi Owode Local Government Area of Ogun State marked a major milestone as it joined in the celebration of Ogun State’s 50th anniversary, with Chairman, Ambassador Adesina ‘Lanre Ogunsola, FCPA, commending past leaders and reaffirming his administration’s commitment to supporting the developmental strides of Governor Dapo Abiodun.
The event, which attracted a distinguished gathering of political leaders, traditional rulers, business executives and professionals from across sectors, provided an avenue to reflect on the local government’s journey over the past five decades and to chart a course for future growth and development.
Speaking at the well-attended ceremony, Amb. Ogunsola paid tribute to former leaders of the council for laying a strong foundation for progress and positioning Obafemi Owode among the performing local governments in Ogun State. He noted that the anniversary was not only a time for celebration but also an opportunity to strengthen unity and collaboration among stakeholders toward advancing community development.
He also lauded the leadership of Governor Dapo Abiodun, describing his administration as inclusive and forward-looking. According to him, the governor’s policies have strengthened Ogun State’s reputation as Nigeria’s “Gateway State” and created an enabling environment for local governments to thrive.
Highlighting some of his administration’s recent initiatives, Ogunsola revealed that he was recently invited to Dover, Delaware in the United States, where he addressed members of the city council and formalised a strategic agricultural partnership. The agreement, he explained, includes land allocation for agricultural expansion, research collaboration, youth agro-entrepreneurship and cultural exchange programmes aimed at boosting food production and employment opportunities in Obafemi Owode.
He further disclosed that his administration led a delegation to South Africa for advanced discussions with Izindonga Group and Maya Foods on establishing a fully integrated poultry value chain within the local government area. The project, he said, is expected to enhance food security in Ogun State and create jobs for residents.
As part of the anniversary celebration, empowerment materials and cash prizes were distributed to beneficiaries, while the chairman announced plans for the construction and grading of roads, rehabilitation of schools and other infrastructure projects across wards in the council area.
Ogunsola assured residents of his continued commitment to improving living standards and delivering people-oriented programmes that will complement the developmental agenda of the state government.
The event also featured goodwill messages and the presence of notable dignitaries, including Engr. Babatunde Adesina, former chairman of Obafemi Owode Local Government and Senior Special Adviser to the Governor on Roads Rehabilitation; the Commissioner for Trade, Commerce and Industry, Hon. Adebola Sofela; Dr. Niran Malaolu, Chief Executive Officer of Rockcity FM; Hon. Soneye Damilola Kayode, member of the Ogun State House of Assembly representing Obafemi Owode; Chief Sina Luwoye, CEO of Ecogas Limited; and Oba Kolawole Aremu Sowemimo, the Olu of Owode, alongside other traditional rulers and community leaders.
The golden jubilee celebration, stakeholders said, served as a platform to honour the past, evaluate the present and reaffirm a collective commitment to building a prosperous future for Obafemi Owode Local Government and Ogun State at large.
