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Abiodun advocates self-help projects as catalyst for community, state development
Abiodun advocates self-help projects as catalyst for community, state development
The Ogun State governor, Dapo Abiodun, has hinted that the state would experience more development if communities embark on self-help projects.
Abiodun dropped this hint at the 45th Anniversary of Isanbi Day celebration held on Saturday at Isanbi High School, Ilisan-Remo, Ikenne Local Government Area of the state.
Speaking further at the event with the theme, “Repositioning Ilisan for Economic Gains”, the governor Abiodun noted that the development of the state is a responsibility of everyone, as no government can do it alone.
“I want to assure you all that, as a government, we will continue to support all genuine efforts by individuals and groups that are directed at improving the cultural heritage and the lives of our people in general.
“We appreciate the fact that no government has all the necessary funds it requires for the development of the society and its people. For this reason, we will continue to welcome and appreciate sincere contributions and recommendations that will help develop our state and improve the socio-economic life of our dear people”, he noted.
Abiodun stated that his administration would continue to conduct the business of governance without being distracted.
He added that he would continue to run the government with a fear of God to ensure free, fair and a just society, with view to promoting fairness to all irrespective of age, gender, religious or political affiliation or their geographical location.
“Let me reiterate that through transparent public finance management which provides an atmosphere that guarantees a more prosperous life for our people. Let me reiterate that we shall continue to uphold all the tenets of Good Governance by being accountable, transparent, responsive, consensus oriented, inclusive, participatory, just, fair and equitable”, he pointed out
The governor, however, stated that this year’s edition of Isanbi Day was important as it would precede the landing and take-off of the first aircraft in the town where the first international Agro Cargo Airport is being built, adding that the town would be a beehive of activities because of a well-planned aerotropolis.
“At this airport city, there is an agro processing centre; an international testing facility for agric produce to be managed in conjunction with the African Development Bank, where every agricultural produce that goes out of Nigeria will first be certified as complying with international standards before being transported out of the country.
“Already, the Nigeria Air Force, the Nigeria Customs Service and so many other private investors are jostling for presence, to become part of the airport city. So, be ready to accommodate at least a 25,000 workforce and members of their families that will join us in this town for the celebration of next year’s Isanbi”, the governor said.
He assured of prompt completion of the Ilishan-Ago-Iwoye road in the next couple of months, saying “the road not only runs through and links three local government areas of jebu North, Ikenne and Odogbolu, but leads to the Agro-Cargo Airport; the Olabisi Onabanjo University in Ago Iwoye; and, the link road to the South East and other arterial roads that link Lagos and the hinterland of the country makes it an economic imperative”.
“I can imagine the volume of trade and socio-economic benefits this road will unleash once completed. No doubt, this road will improve the quality of life, living and will advance commerce and other socio-economic activities in the state. Our agricultural development programme is on course. Ilishan will begin to see a practical demonstration of that as soon as the Agro-Cargo airport takes off”, he assured.
The governor, who noted that every Isanbi Day celebration comes with great improvements on the previous ones, said that “the Day is an attestation to the economic, historical and spiritual antecedents of the great people of the kingdom”.
He observed that the annual event would help in projecting the rich cultural values and norms of the Ilishan people and by extension, Remoland and Ogun State as a whole just as the festival would help in reminding the people their place in history, origin, as an essential component for stimulating communal understanding, love and unity, and for steady progress, peace and development of the larger community.
The Odofin of Ilisan, Oba Mojeed Sonuga, in his speech, appreciated all sons and daughters for their contributions towards the development of the town.
He called on those who have been honoured with chieftaincy titles to redouble their efforts to ensure that the socio-economic well-being of the town is upscaled.
The chairman of the 2022 Isanbi Day Planning Committee, Chief Diran Awotide, described Illisan-Remo as a town blessed with economic potentials and inhabited with lovable people that play host to a university and the state’s Agro-Cargo Airport, calling on the indigenes to work together to harness the town’s potentials for the good of all.
The Lagos State Government, in its continued effort to promote cultural heritage and deepen tourism footprints, has concluded plans to host the Lagos Cultural Weekend.
A three-day cultural extravaganza, scheduled to take place across multiple strategic locations, including the J. Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History, Freedom Park, National Theatre, Badagry Heritage Museum, Lekki Arts and Crafts Market, and Tafawa Balewa Square, from November 14th to November 16th, 2025.
This weekend-long celebration will spotlight the richness of Nigeria’s traditions through curated events that blend history, culture, and local artistry.
Speaking on the initiative, Special Adviser to the Governor on Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Mr. Idris Aregbe, noted that the event is a key part of a broader framework of the Lagos Cultural Mission.
“We aim to use the Lagos Cultural Weekend as a true reflection of Lagos culture, a herescope for tourists and visitors from across the globe to witness just how rich our culture is.
“The three days will be a cultural baptism, a deep, meaningful introduction to who we are. As a government, we now understand prioritising cultural representation as a driver for economic growth.
”On the initiative’s impact, the Special Adviser explained that it goes beyond showcasing culture, but investing in cultural artisans, talented enthusiasts, and key stakeholders to foster real engagement and growth.“Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration values collaboration and inclusiveness, which is why we want to work closely with Lagosians who truly understand our culture to help us achieve these goals.
“From the historians, to creatives, curators, artisans, culinary experts, performers, fashion designers, community leaders, and traditional institutions, we need them to join us in making a lasting impact.“So that, in the end, our guests and friends from many nations will carry home an authentic story of Lagos and enriched cultural literacy,” Mr. Aregbe said.
Attendees will enjoy array of activities, including live music performances, DIY sessions, contemporary art exhibitions, traditional dance showcases, fashion shows, culinary tastings, and craft demonstrations.
Also lined up are symposiums and cultural lectures designed for tourists and enthusiasts who wish to dive deeper into the Lagos cultural identity.
The weekend will be animated by diverse local performance groups representing the rich ethnic landscape of Lagos, with a special emphasis on language, literature, and indigenous storytelling.
Lagos Cultural Weekend 2025 reaffirms the state’s commitment to building a thriving creative economy while celebrating the depth of Nigerian traditions.
Through strategic partnerships, corporate sponsorships, and community engagement, this initiative will set a new benchmark for inclusive cultural programming in Lagos and Africa at large.
Lagos Cultural Mission….Preserving Our Heritage, Advancing The Future
Aare Adetola Emmanuel King Congratulates Hon. Adesola Ayoola-Elegbeji on Election Victory
The Chairman/CEO of Adron Group, Sir Aare Adetola Emmanuel King KOF, has congratulated Hon. Adesola Ayoola-Elegbeji on her resounding victory in the just-concluded by-election for the Remo Federal Constituency seat in the House of Representatives.
In a goodwill message issued by him, he described the victory as “a historic moment for the Remo people, coming at a time when the constituency yearns for a leader with vision, courage, and genuine commitment to service.”
He noted that the outcome of the election was an attestation to the trust and confidence reposed in Hon. Ayoola-Elegbeji by the people, adding that her sterling qualities, integrity, accessibility, and compassion for the grassroots had endeared her to the electorate.
“The overwhelming support you garnered at the polls is proof that you are the right voice at the right time to carry the aspirations of Remo to the national stage,” he stated.
While acknowledging that the by-election followed the painful demise of the late Hon. Adewunmi Oriyomi Onanuga (Ijaya), Aare Adetola Emmanuel King said Hon. Ayoola-Elegbeji’s emergence symbolizes the continuity of purposeful representation. He expressed confidence that she would not only sustain the legacy of her predecessor but also surpass it with new energy, innovative ideas, and progressive leadership.
The Adron Group Chairman further prayed for divine wisdom, strength, and compassion for the Member-Elect as she assumes office, expressing confidence that her tenure will usher in meaningful development, economic empowerment, and greater opportunities for the people of Remo Federal Constituency.
Olowu Celebrates Former Military President, Ibrahim Babangida, At 84
Olowu of Kuta, HRM Oba Dr Hammed Oyelude Makama, CON, Tegbosun III, has congratulated former military president, Gen Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, rtd, who is 84 today.
Olowu, in a statement he signed, eulogised the former military ruler for his modest achievements while he was in power.
According to Olowu, ” IBB is an enigma. He has carved a niche for himself as a former military president. His tenure witnessed the completion of many monumental legacy projects that are still visible today. His Hill Top Mansion in Minna has become a Mecca of sorts for those who aspired to lead Nigeria.”
Olowu, who described Gen Babangida as being grossly misunderstood, said history would be kind to him.
He said, “The launch of Gen Babangida’s Autobiography: ‘A Journey In Service’, and the testimonies from the likes of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, Tony Elumelu, Jim Ovia, Abdusalam Rabiu, Oil Magnate, Arthur Eze, and many others, testified to his goodwill despite leaving public office three decades ago.
” On behalf of myself, my Oloris and Olowu-In-Council.
All members of the defunct IBB Vision 2003 and Vision 2007, I wish President Ibrahim Babangida, rtd, a happy birthday. I also wish him all the best as he aged gracefully,” Olowu added.
Born on August 17, 1941, Gen Ibrahim Babangida, rtd, ruled Nigeria from 1985 to 1993.
His presidency was marked by significant political and economic reforms.
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