A COMMUNIQUE ISSUED AT THE END OF THE 2-DAY ILAJE NATION CONFERENCE 2025 HELD FROM 22ND TO 23RD AT EVENT HALL BON HOTEL IJAPO ESTATE, AKURE, ONDO STATE
1.0 PREAMBLE
The Ilaje Nation Conference 2025 Planning Committee organized a two-day conference for stakeholders in Ilaje land on the theme “Unity in Diversity: Unlocking our Full Potentials”. The conference was convened to keep stakeholders abreast on the need to facilitate the sustainable development of the Ilaje Nation.
2.0 ATTENDANCE
The conference was attended by the traditional rulers, HIM Oba Williams Akinyomi (Amapetu of Mahin), HIM Oba Ilesanmi Ikuemonisan-Mafo (Maporure of Aheri), HIM Oba Owoyele Temidayo (Olikan of Etikan), Spiritual leaders, H.H. Oba Micah Olaseni Ajijo (Ogeloyinbo of Ayetoro), H.H. Henry Mobolorunduro Ogunfeyimi (King of Ugbonla Zion), His Holiness Oluwole Judah (King of Zion-Pepe), Government Functionaries, Justice Ayedun Olusegun Odusola (Chief Judge), Rt. Hon. Abayomi Akinruntan (MHA Ilaje I), Hon. Olawunmi Fayemi-Obayelu (MHA Ilaje II), Mr. Bayo Phillip (Head of Service), Ilaje Elders, Araba Tony Ebietomiye, Chief (Mrs.) Ebisemiju Siliphana, Chief Nimbe Tawose, Top Ilaje Leaders (Technocrates, Politicians and Political Leaders), Chief Olusola Oke (SAN), Chief Olusola Ebiseni, Engr. Benjamin Olomidegun, Hon. Kolade V. Akinjo, and over 200 participants (illustrious sons and daughters of Ilaje origin) also participated and the press.
3.0 PRESENTATIONS
The conference was enriched by presentations, speeches, and goodwill messages. The objectives which encapsulate the mission and vision of Ilaje National Conference 2025 was presented by the convener, Engr. Benjamin Olomidegun, as follows:
To forge unity among the Ilajes as a people bound by history, common heritage, culture and language.
To identify and facilitate efforts to harness development and potentials in our nation.
To identify and coordinate all forces, factors, resources and sources for the development of Ilaje land.
To offer a common platform necessary to articulate Ilaje agenda at all levels.
To capitalize on, sieze upon and utilize every opportunity, window and avenue available from time to time to fast track the rapid development of our area.
To monitor, protect and provide enabling environment for the development of projects in our land.
To put in place structures, including committees, think-tanks, task forces, et cetera, that will identify, incubate, develop and enhance the implementation of development ideas, concepts, agenda, et cetera.
To identify other avenues of funding, i.e. donor agencies, NGOs, corporate entities, other bodies and individuals, to complement the efforts of government on the funding of projects and social amenities.
To corporate and work with government at all levels (local, state and federal) to enhance accelerated and sustainable development of Ilaje nation.
To advise, cooperate and collaborate with government and security agencies to ensure and provide a well secured environment, without which development efforts and sacrifices could be in vain.
Savouring the joy of the recent election of His Excellence Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa as the governor of Ondo State which evidently marks the first in the history of Ilaje nation, he concluded that this landmark achievement by the illustrious son of Ilaje will unarguably give the Ilaje nation the required factors required to actualize the vision and mission of the conference and consequently move the Ilaje nation to her promise land. Hence, he opened that this rare opportunity must be optimized by Ilaje nation.
4.0 OBSERVATIONS
Arising from the speeches, paper presentations, and contributions of participants, the following observations were made:
1. Poverty: The problem of Ilaje is not dichotomy per se but that of abject poverty. The narrative that dichotomy is the bane of our underdevelopment is no longer tenable and should be discarded. Dichotomy is not exclusive to Ilaje nation.
2. Weak Human Capital: Lack of capacity and poor educational foundation have contributed more to our underdevelopment.
3. Environmental Degradation: Our environment makes infrastructural provision much more expensive than what is obtainable upland.
4. Political Marginalization and Unbalanced development arising from predatory political ascendancy and ego-centrism.
5. Collapse of community governance structure
6. Project implementation failures and conspicuous absence of monitoring and evaluation mechanisms.
7. Limited infrastructure and social amenities: Lack of road, inadequate healthcare, and poor education facilities
5.0 RECOMMENDATIONS
To therefore combat these challenges and accelerate Ilaje development, the Conference resolved as follows:
To establish a higher institution in Ilaje land in order to promote sound education, reduce out of school children ratio, reward excellence and innovation in form of incentives.
To tackle our environmental challenge, it was recommended that there is a need to drain the rivers that traverse Ilaje land into the sea by deliberately opening up four of the estuaries to dry up the wet terrain and make them available to agriculture and oil and gas activities.
To stimulate economic activities, we should encourage SMEs incubation in all the twelve wards of Ilaje local government area.
Political power must be deliberately used for the development of the area.
To put up a dispute resolution mechanism for Ilaje land.
To identify and coordinate all forces, factors, resources and sources for the development of Ilaje land.
It was agreed that we should capitalize on, seize upon and utilize every opportunity available to fast track the rapid development of our area.
We must monitor, protect and provide enabling environment for the development of projects in our land.
To secure the land and encourage external investments, we shall advise, cooperate and collaborate with government and security agencies to ensure and provide a well secured environment, without which development efforts and sacrifices could be in vain.
To set up a body to be known as Ilaje Nation with its own executive and various sub-committees under it.
6.0 APPRECIATION
The Ilaje Nation Conference 2025 Planning Committees was commended for organizing the conference and advocated for its sustainability. The participants were also commended for their dedication and immense contributions to the success of the conference.
Issued this day Sunday 23rd of February, 2025.
Signed
Professor Aderonke J. Ikuomola
Dr. Wunmi Ilawole- Egbaiyelo
Prince (Barr) Lawson Akintokun
NB: Published as received
About the author
Rwanda vs Nigeria: Chelle reignites the Super Eagles’ aspirations for the 2026 World Cup in Kigali.
On Friday, Eric Chelle became the inaugural non-Nigerian African coach to take the helm of the Super Eagles. The Malian coach directed his first match, resulting in a 2-0 win against Rwanda during a qualifying round for the 2026 World Cup. Chelle's appointment by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) took place on January 7, as he replaced Finidi George and succeeded interim coach Augustine Eguavoen. Since that time, he has dedicated three months to traveling across Nigeria, observing domestic league matches, and engaging with his players based in Europe. However, his initial team selection remained perplexing. Chelle opted for a highly offensive formation in Kigali, which appeared unbalanced on paper. Victor Osimhen, Samuel Chukwueze, Ademola Lookman, and Moses Simon were all included in the attacking lineup, while Alex Iwobi and Wilfred Ndidi occupied the midfield positions. "I had mixed feelings. […]
Former OGTV Staff Murder: Ogun Police Arrest Alleged Mastermind, Two Accomplices
The Ogun State Police Command has arrested three suspects in connection with the murder of former OGTV staff member, Olakitan Oyesiku, and her security guard, Pelumi Adetayo. The suspects reportedly confessed to carrying out the gruesome killings over claims of poor remuneration.Speaking during a media briefing at the Ogun State Police Headquarters, Eleweran, Abeokuta, the Commissioner of Police, CP Bode Ojajuni, disclosed that the principal suspect, 22-year-old Sodeinde Olajuwon Philip, a former security guard employed by the deceased, confessed that he planned with two accomplices, Sakirudeen Abdulraheem Ayoola, 27, and Sobu Obafunsho to execute the crime.According to the Police Commissioner, the suspects told Police investigators that they murdered Mrs. Oyesiku to “teach her a lesson” over what they described as inadequate pay. Ojajuni said the suspects were apprehended through intensive intelligence gathering, technical tracking, and painstaking investigations. He added that […]
Tragedy: Many trapped as three-storey building collapses in Lagos
A three-storey building on Thursday collapsed in the Alakija area of Lagos State, with several people feared trapped beneath the rubbles. The incident occurred at about 11:40 am and the exact number of persons trapped could not be immediately ascertained. trending_flat News & Politics Tragedy: Many trapped as three-storey building collapses in Lagos thequantumvalley@gmail.com June 25, 2026 trending_flat Inside Ondo Ondo Amotekun Parades 46 Suspects, Steps Up Fight Against Kidnapping Tosin June 25, 2026 trending_flat News Senate Passes State Police Bill in Major Security Reform Move Tosin June 25, 2026 trending_flat News & Politics I don’t see the level of hunger Nigerians complain about — Onanuga thequantumvalley@gmail.com June 24, 2026 Our correspondent who visited the scene of the incident reported that as at the time of filing this report, emergency personnel and rescue operators were yet to arrive at the […]
I don’t see the level of hunger Nigerians complain about — Onanuga
Bayo Onanuga, the Pre insidential spokesperson, has said he does not share the view that the level of hunger often described by critics reflects the reality across Nigeria. Onanuga said many Nigerians are benefiting from policies introduced by President Bola Tinubu’s administration.Speaking during an interview on Arise Television on Tuesday, Onanuga argued that several government initiatives have delivered tangible benefits to citizens, citing infrastructure projects, student loans and credit facilities for workers as examples.According to him, recent road projects have significantly improved travel experiences for many Nigerians. Recalling a recent journey from Ibadan to Lagos, Onanuga said he was impressed by a newly constructed concrete road around the Ijebu-Ode axis.“One day I was traveling from Ibadan to Lagos, and Google Maps told me that there’s a go-slow in the approach to Lagos, and I decided to take Ijebu-Ode via Shagamu. […]
Kwara Scandal: King of Alabe, His Queen Caught With ₦120m Loot — Linked to Banditry
King of Babanla, Queens Also Arrested. The shocking truth has finally come out in Kwara State. The King of Alabe and his Queen were arrested after security operatives stormed their palace. During the search, over ₦90 million in cash was discovered in the king’s residence, while investigators also traced over ₦30 million hidden in his wife’s account.All the money has been linked directly to the kidnappings and banditry terrorizing the region. The royal couple was immediately taken into custody for further investigation. In another related case, Ayemafuge learnt that another monarch, the King of Babanla, alongside his queens, was also arrested for allegedly having a hand in the same criminal activities. trending_flat News & Politics Kwara Scandal: King of Alabe, His Queen Caught With ₦120m Loot — Linked to Banditry thequantumvalley@gmail.com June 24, 2026 trending_flat Inside Ondo Gunmen Abduct Teacher […]
Iru Ekun Security Network Arrests Two Suspected K!dnappeers in Osun
- Rescues V!ctimsIru Ekun Security Network Arrests Two Suspected Kidnappers in Osun and Rescues VictimsOperatives of the Iru Ekun Security Network, established by Yoruba nation activist Chief Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, have arrested two suspected kidnappers and rescued two abducted victims in Ora-Igbomina, Osun State.The operation was launched following intelligence reports that three residents of the community had been kidnapped by armed men and taken into a nearby forest.Acting swiftly on the information, members of the security outfit conducted a search-and-rescue mission, tracked down the suspects, and successfully rescued two of the victims unharmed.According to the team leader, the suspects admitted their involvement in the abduction during preliminary interrogation. They were subsequently apprehended and taken into custody by the operatives.Efforts are still ongoing to locate and secure the release of the third victim, who is believed to […]
Veteran Nollywood actor, Kola Oyewo dies at 80
Veteran actor and scholar, Professor Adekola Oyewo, popularly known as Kola Oyewo died at the age of 80 years. The news of his death was announced on Friday by his son, Adetoyese Oyewo, through a message shared on his Facebook account. In the announcement, Adetoyese described his father as a man whose life was marked by “love, wisdom, strength and kindness. “It is with a heavy heart that I share the passing of my beloved father,” he wrote.He said that although the family was grieving, they remained grateful for the life Professor Oyewo lived and the impact he made on countless individuals throughout his lifetime. According to him, the late actor’s legacy would continue through the memories shared by family members, friends, colleagues and admirers whose lives he influenced. trending_flat News & Politics Oyo kidnappings : Falana leads protest over […]
Related
Police arrest five for wearing ‘Tinubu Must Go’ T-shirts
The Police has arrested and arraigned five men for allegedly wearing T-shirts bearing “Tinubu Must Go” inscription in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital. A First Information Report (FIR) issued by the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) and verified through court officials, named the defendants as Baba Aji Gremami, 44; Mustapha Abba Yemen, 28; Abbacha Mohammed Ali, 32; Adam Umar Gubio, 21; and Abdulhamid Mohammed, 21. The document, dated September 29, 2026, stated that the incident occurred on September 25, 2026, at about 11:00 a.m around the West End Roundabout community in Maiduguri. The police charged the defendants with criminal conspiracy, inciting disturbance, disturbance of public peace, and thuggery—offences the prosecution argues run contrary to Sections 60, 78, 79, and 392 of the Borno State Penal Code. When the case was brought before the Chief Magistrate Court I in Maiduguri, all […]
Police arrest Education Commissioner, three others over deputy director’s death
The Police has arrested the Commissioner for Secondary Education in Delta State, Dr Kingsley Ashibogwu, and three others over the death of Mr Unity Ekpevbughe Adeda, a Deputy Director in the state Ministry of Secondary Education. This brings to five the number of suspects currently in police custody in connection with the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of Adeda. The spokesperson for the Police Command in the state, SP Bright Edafe made the disclodure in a statement on Monday in Asaba. The command also declared a manhunt for the Director of Basic and Secondary Education, Mrs Clemetine Ufuoma, and Clement Apia, the driver attached to the Commissioner for Secondary Education. The police said the presence of the two suspects was required to advance the investigation. The command urged Ufuoma and Apia to make themselves available to the police […]
Osun residents count losses as ‘cheap food vendor’ disappears with customers’ money
Residents of Osogbo, the capital of Osun State, are counting their losses after a ‘cheap’ food vendor in the Odi-Olowo area abruptly shut down and vanished with millions of naira in advance payments from customers. Ayemafuge got the reports that the vendor collected advance payments from scores of customers for low-cost food packages. The vendor reportedly offered rice, cooking oil, spaghetti, and semovita at prices significantly below market rates, attracting many buyers who paid in advance for future delivery. However, the scheme collapsed on Monday when the vendor closed shop unexpectedly. It was gathered that the vendor lured customers with giveaway prices, selling a 50kg bag of rice for ₦27,000, 25 litres of cooking oil for ₦30,000 and a pack of spaghetti for ₦10,000. Customers were required to pay upfront and return a week later to collect their orders. Trouble […]
2027 ELECTIONS: WHY NIGERIANS MUST KEEP ATIKU AWAY FROM THE NATIONAL TREASURY
The media and public discourse have been awashe with damning reports of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s alleged dealings in local and international bribery and corruption schemes. Ghosts of his sordid past continue, restlessly, to haunt and warn that Atiku must never again be allowed anywhere close to such a commanding position of trust and responsibility as the presidency. As a former public official, Atiku’s record is an executive summary of some of Nigeria’s vilest episodes of corruption and cronyism that pulverised our economy and decimated public trust. Nigeria’s upcoming presidential election presents the electorate the opportunity to deal a final blow to Atiku’s desperate quest for presidential power and save the country from his ravenous plunder. From the Mambilla Hydroelectric Power Project and the Siemens bribery scandal to the William Jefferson case, the PTDF funds controversy, and the US […]
Tinubu, Fani-Kayode face $36m lawsuit over alleged death threats
A United States law firm working for former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Von Batten Montague-York, has said it has been cleared and authorised to commence a $36 million federal lawsuit against President Bola Tinubu and former Minister of Aviation, Femi Fani-Kayode, in the United States. The firm disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday saying the suit would be filed before the United States District Court for the District of Columbia. Our correspondent in the US reported that the statement reads “We have been cleared and authorized to proceed with a $36 million federal lawsuit against Nigerian President Bola Tinubu (@OfficialABAT) and Ambassador Femi Fani-Kayode in the United States District Court for the District of Columbia.” The suit arises from threats of kidnap and physical harm to Dr Von Batten, made by Ambassador Fani-Kayode as part of the alleged […]
Tinubu extends vacation in Europe, returns at weekend
The Presidency on Monday announced that President Bola Tinubu has extended his working vacation by a few days. The Presidency said Tinubu is expected to return to Nigeria at the weekend. Tinubu departed Nigeria on August 30 for London to begin the vacation before travelling to Paris, France, where he met French President Emmanuel Macron and businessman Vincent Bolloré. A statement by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said Tinubu had remained in touch with developments at home and continued to direct the affairs of the country while away. The statement said Tinubu, among other directives, ordered an independent panel to investigate the death of 37 illegal miners in Minna following their detention by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps. “President Tinubu will return to Nigeria at the weekend, following the extension of his working […]
Be the first to leave a comment