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It was a historic moment of celebration and gratitude in Ere-Ijesa, Obokun Local Government Area of Osun State, as dignitaries, traditional rulers, community leaders, and residents gathered for the official commissioning of the Elere Ajifolokunsaya Market Complex — a modern market project built and donated to the people of Ere-Ijesa.
The ultra-modern commercial hub was generously funded and presented to the community by Prof. Oyewole Ajifolokun, Aderonke Adeoye (Dr. Mrs. Aderonke Adeoye), who hold the revered traditional titles of Gbobaniyi and Yeye Gbobaniyi of Ere-Ijesa, in partnership with Club 5, USA.
The donation has been widely described as a landmark act of diaspora-driven community development and a legacy project aimed at strengthening local commerce and improving livelihoods.
Dignitaries and Royal Presence
The commissioning ceremony was chaired by the Asiwaju of Ijesaland, Yinka Fasuyi, who was represented by Dr. Adigun Adewoye.
The Royal Father of the Day was Oba Augustine Alowolodu II, the Elere of Ere-Ijesa. Other monarchs in attendance included:
Oba Akeem Olusayo Ogungbangbe
Oba Amos Adewumi Ogidiolu
Oba Olufemi Agunsoye
Oba Babatunde Ojo
Oba Michael Adeyemi Adebayo
Oba Gbenga Omole
Amongst others
Members of the Elere-in-Council, local government officials, religious leaders, legal luminaries, and members of Club 5, USA (Chicago chapter) were also present.
A Gift to the Community
Speakers at the event repeatedly emphasized that the Elere Ajifolokunsaya Market Complex was not a government-funded project but a personal and collective donation by Prof. Ajifolokun, Dr. Mrs. Adeoye, and Club 5, USA to the people of Ere-Ijesa.
The facility, described as a modern commercial hub, is expected to serve as a structured marketplace for traders, farmers, and small-scale entrepreneurs, providing improved trading conditions and boosting economic activities within the town and surrounding communities.
Community leaders commended the donors for their vision, patriotism, and unwavering commitment to grassroots development.
Vision for Economic Growth
In his opening address, High Chief Olutise Adenipekun, the Aro of Ere-Ijesa, noted that the project aligns with the broader vision of the Owa Obokun of Ijesaland, Clement Adesuyi Haastrup, for commercial expansion and economic advancement across Ijesaland.
He urged market men and women to take full ownership of the facility by conducting their businesses responsibly and ensuring fair pricing to promote sustainable growth.
Club 5, USA: Diaspora Impact in Action
Speaking during the ceremony, representatives of Club 5, USA highlighted that their support for the project reflects their collective commitment to service, unity, and purposeful impact.
They expressed particular pride in partnering with Prof. Ajifolokun and Dr. Mrs. Adeoye in delivering what they described as a “legacy infrastructure” to their hometown.
According to the group, the project demonstrates how diaspora collaboration can translate into tangible development that strengthens families, uplifts communities, and supports socio-economic advancement.
Official Commissioning and Royal Blessings
The symbolic cutting of the ribbon was performed by the Chairman and the Royal Fathers, formally unveiling the donated market complex to the people of Ere-Ijesa.
The Iyaloja of Ere-Ijesa, Chief (Mrs.) Mojirade Jacob, welcomed the initiative and expressed optimism that the facility would significantly improve trading activities.
Royal blessings were offered by Oba Augustine Alowolodu II and Oba Olufemi Agunsoye, who prayed for peace, prosperity, and continued progress in the community.
Sustainability and Community Ownership
In his vote of thanks, Prof. Oyewole Ajifolokun stressed that while buildings are important, the true measure of progress lies in community ownership and sustainability.
He urged residents to protect and properly maintain the donated facility, noting that sustainability requires transparency, accountability, and shared responsibility.
“The success of any project does not end at commissioning; it begins there,” he said.
A Lasting Legacy
The commissioning of the Elere Ajifolokunsaya Market Complex stands as a powerful example of private philanthropy and diaspora partnership in community development.
For many residents, the project represents more than a market — it is a symbol of unity, generosity, and a renewed commitment to the economic prosperity of Ere-Ijesa.
The ceremony ended with music and cultural performances, as the people celebrated what is widely regarded as a transformative gift to the community.
More Photos: Coverage, script ✍️ Camera 📸 Credit: Oladimeji Lasore (+2347035105413, [email protected])
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