Oluwatoyin Alabi Reviews Eight Years of Community Devt at Igbaja Stakeholders Meeting

 

By Abdulsalam Ibrahim Lahdan

Stakeholders and indigenes of Igbaja in Kwara State gathered in an atmosphere of renewed commitment as Dr. Oluwatoyin Alabi met with sons and daughters of the town to review eight years of sustained community development efforts spanning 2018 to 2025.

The engagement provided an opportunity for reflection, accountability and strategic dialogue on the future of the historic community.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Alabi described the meeting as a community progress briefing rather than a celebration of personal accomplishments.

He stressed that the milestones recorded over the years were products of collective effort, shared vision and cooperation among Igbaja indigenes.

“Whatever progress we have made since 2018 is not the success of one person, but the outcome of our common belief in Igbaja and our readiness to work together for its growth,” he said.

Among the key achievements highlighted was the introduction of the Igbaja Anthem, which Dr. Alabi described as a significant cultural initiative that has strengthened unity and fostered a sense of pride among indigenes both at home and in the diaspora.

He also recalled the launch of the Igbaja Website, noting that it has given the town a digital identity and expanded its visibility, partnerships and development opportunities beyond its immediate environment.

Dr. Alabi further spoke on the Lighting Up Igbaja initiative, which he said improved night-time activities and enhanced community safety.

While also acknowledging ongoing security challenges, he noted that consistent advocacy, community vigilance and collaboration with security agencies have remained central to efforts to safeguard lives and property.

“Development cannot thrive in an atmosphere of fear, which is why security continues to be a top priority,” he said.

He also highlighted advocacy efforts that led to the introduction of prepaid electricity meters in the community, aimed at addressing the problem of excessive estimated billing.

According to him, the initiative promoted fairness, transparency and financial relief for residents.

The street-naming project was also cited as a step towards better town planning, improved navigation and quicker emergency response.

On healthcare, Dr. Alabi recalled various medical outreach programmes that provided free medical consultations, drugs and health education, particularly for vulnerable residents.

He described the health insurance scheme for elderly citizens as one of the most impactful interventions of the period, saying it was designed to ensure access to quality healthcare and restore dignity to senior members of the community.

“Our elders deserve care, respect and peace of mind after years of service to Igbaja,” he said.

 

 

Alabi paid tribute to the Elese of Igbaja, His Royal Majesty, Oba Ahmed Babalola Awuni Arepo III; Alhaji Abdulraheem Amao Oladimeji, the Asiwaju of Igbomina Land; and members of the Elese-in-Council for their guidance and consistent support for development initiatives.

He also acknowledged the contributions of community organisations, including the Igbaja Progressive Union branches in Lagos, Igbaja and Ilorin, the Igbaja People’s Forum, Igbaja Pathfinder Organization, Igbaja Muslim Council, Igbaja Christian Association, Ifowosowopo Igbaja Development Association, and several clubs and associations.

He further recognised the support and counsel of respected elders and prominent sons and daughters of the town, including Elder Olaitan Oyin-Zubair, Alhaji Saka Atunde, Alhaji Yusuf Ayinla, Alhaji Kam Salam, Alhaji Shiloh Awobimpe, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, Dr. Doyin Ogunleye, Barrister Tunji Bale, Elder Bode Malomo, among others.

In his closing remarks, Dr. Alabi urged all indigenes of Igbaja, both at home and abroad, to strengthen unity and sustain the momentum of development.

“The future of Igbaja will not be shaped by one voice or one group, but by our collective resolve to place the community above personal interests,” he said.

The stakeholders’ meeting ended on an optimistic note, reaffirming Igbaja’s commitment to preserving its heritage while pursuing inclusive and sustainable development.