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The Oba Titus Folorunso Adewale Foundation (OTFA) has launched a major community development initiative to provide electricity for Ijemba-Ijesa, a historic town in Ijesaland that has existed for more than 300 years without access to power supply.
The project was officially unveiled on Monday at the Ijemba-Ijesa Community Hall, marking the commencement of the first phase of the electrification programme. This initial phase involves the installation of 64 electricity poles across the community, while subsequent phases will cover wiring, transformer installation, and the eventual activation of electricity in the coming months.
The launch ceremony attracted a large turnout of dignitaries, including traditional rulers from Atakumosa East and West Local Government Areas, members of the Ijemba-Ijesa Traditional Council, indigenes of the town from within and outside Nigeria, as well as members of the Adewale family worldwide. The impressive attendance underscored the significance of the project and the collective resolve to improve the community’s socio-economic conditions.
Speaking at the event, Prince Francis Adewale, President of the Washington State Bar Association in the United States and a key member of the Adewale family, said the initiative reflects the family’s long-standing commitment to the development of Ijemba-Ijesa and other communities in Ijesaland. He revealed that until recently, the town was so underdeveloped that it did not appear on Google Maps, despite its centuries-old history.
Prince Adewale explained that the foundation’s development arm has been actively driving impactful projects across the region, describing the electrification scheme as the first step in a broader vision to uplift the community. He stressed the importance of transparency and sincerity in development efforts, noting that unlike some interventions driven by ulterior motives such as land or mineral exploitation, OTFA’s involvement is rooted in genuine service and a desire to preserve family legacy.
He also recalled the counsel of their late father, Oba Titus Folorunso Adewale, the Ajemba of Ijemba-Ijesa from 1970 to 1989, who charged his children to ensure that development initiatives extend beyond Ilesa to all parts of Ijesaland. According to him, Ijemba-Ijesa holds a special place in the family’s history, inspiring over 145 members of the Adewale family across the globe to rally behind the project.
Also speaking, Dr. Faith Adewale, a medical doctor, AR creator, and former Big Brother Naija Season 10 (2025) housemate, expressed delight at being part of the initiative. She said the project further strengthens the bond between the Adewale family and the people of Ijemba-Ijesa, noting that their grandfather made notable contributions to the town during his reign. She added that OTFA has several other development projects planned for Ijemba-Ijesa and other parts of Ijesaland.
In his remarks, the Ajemba of Ijemba, Oba Adewale Oluwabukunmi Sunday, commended the foundation and the Adewale family for their renewed commitment to the town’s progress. He described the electrification project as a historic milestone that would significantly improve living standards and unlock new economic opportunities for residents.
Similarly, Prince Victor Adewale, the Olori-Ebi (Head of the Adewale Family), called for unity among indigenes, stressing that meaningful development can only be achieved through collective effort. He reaffirmed the family’s openness to partnerships and collaborations aimed at advancing the growth and prosperity of Ijemba-Ijesa.
The event, which brought together traditional rulers, family members, and indigenes from around the world, highlighted OTFA’s dedication to sustainable community development. The electrification project is expected to serve as a catalyst for broader infrastructural, social, and economic transformation, reinforcing the foundation’s mission to uplift communities across Ijesaland through impactful and lasting interventions.
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