Over 21 cooperative societies of farmers and artisans in Osun State have received a financial boost of over ₦120 million, courtesy of the Agboluaje Kajola Foundation. The foundation, supported by a group of philanthropists, also commissioned solar-powered streetlights worth ₦100 million at Igbona Market in Osogbo, Ilare Ijesa, and Ilesa towns. Additionally, newly built lockup shops for kolanut sellers at Atakunmosa Market in Ilesa were unveiled.
Speaking at the event, Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke and former Governor Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola lauded the foundation’s efforts. Both leaders urged wealthy Nigerians to invest in grassroots empowerment initiatives. Adeleke, represented by Commissioner for Political and Intergovernmental Affairs, Comrade Biyi Odunlade, emphasized the importance of community-oriented programmes that align with his administration’s policies to support youth, women, and artisans.
“What is happening today is commendable. Initiatives like this complement our efforts in empowering the people and driving economic growth,” Adeleke noted.
Aregbesola, the Grand Patron of the foundation, applauded its commitment to economic transformation, stating, “The crux of economic growth begins with the local economy. The Agboluaje Kajola Foundation’s efforts embody the Omoluabi ethos and are truly commendable.”
Vice Chairman of the foundation, Asiwaju Olusegun Akintade, highlighted the initiative’s apolitical mission to support local businesses. “This is not about loans; it’s empowerment. We’re creating a pool of resources managed by the people themselves to support enterprising individuals who are cash-strapped,” Akintade said.
The empowerment programme, which began with seven cooperatives, has now expanded to 21, with plans for further growth. Akintade called on other privileged individuals to partner with the foundation to expand its reach.
Ataoja of Osogbo, Oba Jimoh Oyetunji, praised the foundation’s impact and advocated for greater collaboration between the government and philanthropic groups to address economic challenges and enhance community development.
The event, held at the palace of the Ataoja of Osogbo, included cheque distributions to beneficiaries and a reception honoring the foundation’s grand patron.
