Chief Akinsola Akinfemiwa is an accomplished Owner/Chairman/CEO with a distinguished career spanning several decades, demonstrating expertise in senior management, advisory roles, and board memberships. A recipient of the Officer of the Order of Niger (OON) award and an Honorary Doctor of Science (D.Sc.) degree in Management, Chief Akinfemiwa is also the Aro of Ile-Oluji Kingdom, and the Speaker of the Ile-Oluji Assembly (IA).
He is the Chairman & CEO of AAGMR Limited (Investment and Project Management/Consulting Firm), from July 2010 to date. Previously, he worked in the banking industry, starting as an Analyst and rising to the zenith of his profession, becoming the Managing Director, first at Prudent Bank and later Skye Bank, from 1989 till 2010.
Education: University of Nigeria, Nsukka (1972 – 1976): B.Sc. (2nd Class Upper) in Agric Economics; University of Ife (1978–1980): MBA (Masters in Business Administration); Executive Programmes: The European Institute of Business Administration (INSEAD), France – 2015: Leading from the Chair Program; Harvard Business School, Boston, USA – 2010: Making Corporate Boards More Effective; The European Institute of Business Administration (INSEAD), France – 2005: Advanced Management Programme; Lagos Business School – 1999: Integrated Marketing; The European Institute of Business Administration (INSEAD), France – 1996: Strategic Management in Banking; Euromoney Training Centre, Red Hill Surrey, UK – 1991: Commercial Banking Marketing; American Express Bank, New York, USA – 1990: Executive Management Programme; First National Bank of Chicago (FNBC), Chicago, USA – 1988: Internship with FNBC Leasing Corporation, Chicago; Manchester Business School, Manchester, UK – 1985: International Commercial Banking.
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Current Board Memberships: Chairman, AAGMR Ltd; Chairman, Premiere Academy Ltd; Chairman, Premiere Eye Centre Ltd; Chairman, Advisory Board, Woodhall Capital; Chairman, Ondo State Education Trust Fund; Board member of various companies; Founder, Arabaa Foundation; Committee Member, National Think Tank
Past Appointments: Chairman, Heritage Banking Company Limited; Vice-Chairman, Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN); Chairman, Law Union and Rock Insurance Plc; Chairman, Crystallife Assurance Limited; Chairman, Skye Stockbrokers Limited; Chairman, Ile-Oluji Cocoa Products Limited; Director, Kakawa Discount House Limited; Director, Skye Bank, Sierra Leone.
Awards: Officer of the Order of Niger (OON); Honorary Doctor of Science (D.Sc.) degree in Management from Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomosho.
Traditional Titles: Aro of Ile-Oluji Kingdom (Ondo State); Ogwagboyegun of Owo Kingdom; The Peredi of Aleibiri Kingdom
Professional & Social Affiliations: Past Chairman and President of the Equipment Leasing Association of Nigeria (ELAN); Member, the Nigerian Economic Summit Group; Membership in various social clubs, including the Supreme Club of Ile-Oluji Kingdom.
Ahead of his 70th birthday coming up tomorrow, April 22, 2025, Chief Akinsola Akinfemiwa, OON, a revered boardroom icon and one of Nigeria’s critically acclaimed financial services experts, spoke to Ademola Akinbola, Publisher of The Podium International Magazine on his life, philosophy, values, career, success story, and perspectives on leadership. Here are excerpts …
Sir, turning 70 is a significant milestone. When you reflect on your journey, what moments stand out as the most defining of your life?
I would like to acknowledge the significant influence of my father’s brother, Chief Lawrence Akinfemiwa, who played a mentorship role in my life. During my formative years, I had the privilege of spending time with him. My father also introduced me to some of his associates and friends, including notable figures such as Chief Henry Oloyede Fajemirokun, Prof. Ayo Ogunseye, Baba Badun Akintimehin, and Chief Michael Akintomide. These successful individuals inspired me to strive for excellence, and their children became lifelong friends, expanding my professional and personal network.
I believe the role of the family on my mother’s side also shaped a couple of things; my Aunties and my Uncle, Chief Samuel Olabode, Sobaloju of Ikeja, influenced my perception of life. With them, I was treated like some prince who must lead tomorrow. They pumped all sorts into me to want to conquer the world. My mother passed on when 1 was 12, so they took over, so to speak. As I reflect on my career journey, I recall initially considering a path in academics before being drawn to the corporate world, particularly Accountancy and Banking. A pivotal moment came when I met Prof. Ayo Ogunseye, who guided me into the realm of merchant banking. Another significant milestone was meeting my wonderful wife and deciding to marry. This life choice has had a profound impact on my personal and professional growth.
In my career, a major highlight was my time at Prudent Merchant Bank, followed by the historic 5-way merger that led to the formation of Skye bank, now Polaris Bank. That’s a story for another time, but it’s a testament to the power of strategic partnerships and innovative thinking.
What legacy do you hope to leave behind for your family, community, and country?
This is a profound question. As I reflect on my life’s journey, I am reminded that our time on this earth is but a fleeting moment. Yet, the impact we make can be eternal. In terms of legacy for my family, for my loved ones, I desire a legacy of love, values, and resilience. I hope to have instilled in them the importance of kindness, compassion, and empathy. I want my family to remember me as a pillar of strength, a guiding light that inspired them to chase their dreams and never give up.
For my community, I aspire to leave a legacy of service, leadership, and positive change. I hope to have contributed to the betterment of our community through my work, volunteerism, and advocacy. I envision a community that is more inclusive, equitable, and just, where everyone has access to opportunities and resources. I want my community to remember me as a champion of progress, a bridge-builder who brought people together to achieve great things.
For the world at large, I desire a legacy of inspiration, hope, and transformation. I hope to have made a meaningful impact on the lives of people I’ve never met, through my work and interactions. I envision a world where people are empowered to reach their full potential, where diversity is celebrated, and where love and kindness triumph over hate and fear.
How I want to be remembered? I want to be remembered as a person who lived a life of purpose, passion, and principle. I want to be remembered as someone who cared deeply about people, who listened actively, and who acted with empathy and compassion. I want to be remembered as a leader who inspired others to lead, and who empowered them to take action. Ultimately, I want my legacy to be a testament to the power of love, kindness, and generosity. I want my life to have been a reminder that we all have the capacity to make a difference, and to leave the world a better place than we found it.
Looking back, is there anything you would have done differently in your personal or professional journey?
As I look back on my personal and professional journey, there are indeed things I would have done differently, armed with the wisdom and insights gained from my experiences; for instance, prioritizing family time, spending enough time with my loved ones. I was focused on my career and climbing the professional ladder so I often put family time on the back burner. If I could do it again, I would make more time for my family, create more memories, and be more present in their lives.
Secondly, balancing work and life; I would have also liked to achieve a better balance between my work and personal life. While my career was fulfilling, I often found myself consumed by it, leaving little time for other pursuits and interests. I would have liked to explore more hobbies, travel, and personal development opportunities.
Government service and entrepreneurship; professionally, I would have liked to spend more time in government service. My brief stint in government was rewarding, and I believe I could have made a more significant impact if I had stayed longer. Additionally, I would have liked to encourage and support those around me to be more entrepreneurial, take calculated risks, and pursue their passions. Nevertheless, there are numerous valuable lessons learned. While there are things I would have done differently, I am grateful for the experiences and lessons learned along the way. These lessons have shaped me into the person I am today, and I will carry them with me for the rest of my journey.
If I could advise my younger self, it would be to: Prioritize family time and create lasting memories; Achieve a better balance between work and personal life; Take calculated risks and pursue entrepreneurial endeavours; Stay true to your values and passions. As I reflect on my journey, I am reminded that life is a complex tapestry of choices, experiences, and lessons learned. While there are things I would have done differently, I am grateful for the wisdom and insights gained from my journey.
You’ve played a vital role in the financial sector and community development. What core leadership principles have guided your decisions?
I am reminded of the timeless leadership principles that have guided my decisions. These principles, rooted in wisdom and compassion, have been inspired by the teachings of Jesus Christ.
Servant Leadership: “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.” (Mark 10:43). I have sought to embody the principles of servant leadership. This approach has guided my decision-making, ensuring that my actions align with the well-being of those I serve.
Stewardship: “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” (1 Peter 4:10). As a leader, I have recognized that I am a steward of the resources entrusted to me. This principle has guided my management of financial resources, ensuring that I use them wisely and for the benefit of all.
Empowerment: “Come, follow me, and I will show you how to fish for people!” (Matthew 4:19). I have sought to empower others, recognizing that leadership is not about personal aggrandizement but about enabling others to reach their full potential. By delegating authority, providing guidance, and fostering a supportive environment, I have aimed to empower others to become leaders in their own right.
Integrity: “Let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No’; anything beyond this comes from the evil one.” (Matthew 5:37). Throughout my leadership journey, I have strived to maintain the highest level of integrity, being truthful and transparent in all my interactions. This principle has guided my decision-making, ensuring that I act with honesty, ethics, and accountability.
Compassion: “When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.” (Matthew 9:36). As a leader, I have sought to demonstrate compassion, recognizing that those I serve are not just statistics or stakeholders, but human beings with inherent dignity and worth. This principle has guided my interactions, ensuring that I approach others with empathy, kindness, and understanding.
Legacy: “Store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.” (Matthew 6:20). Throughout my leadership journey, I have been mindful of the legacy I will leave behind. This principle has guided my decision-making, ensuring that I prioritize actions that will have a lasting, positive impact on those I serve.
These timeless leadership principles, inspired by the teachings of Jesus Christ, have guided my decisions and actions throughout my journey in the financial sector and community development.
What has been the most rewarding aspect of your service to Nigeria and your contributions to Ile-Oluji?
I am reminded of the wise words of Aristotle, “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.” A Life of Service: For me, a life of service has been a habit, knowing that I’m doing something of service has always brought me immense joy and fulfilment. The most rewarding aspect of my service to Nigeria has been the opportunity to make a positive impact wherever I find myself. Whether through my work in the banking sector, my community development initiatives, or my role as a leader, I have been humbled by the trust placed in me and the chance to serve.
The Ripple Effect: As I look back, I am reminded of the ripple effect of our actions. A small stone cast into a pond can create waves that extend far beyond the initial splash. Similarly, our contributions, no matter how small they may seem, can have a profound impact on those around us. Leaving a Lasting Legacy; In Ile-Oluji, my contributions have been centered on community development and empowerment. I have been blessed to play a role in the growth and transformation of this beautiful town. As I reflect on my legacy, I am reminded that true greatness is not about what we achieve, but about the positive impact we have on others.
A Sense of Purpose: The most rewarding aspect of my service has been the sense of purpose it has given me. When we serve others, we find meaning and fulfilment. We discover that our lives are not just about our achievements, but about the positive difference we can make in the world The Power of Selflessness: As I look to the future, I am reminded of the power of selflessness. When we put the needs of others before our own, we create a ripple effect of kindness and compassion that can transform lives. I hope that my legacy will inspire others to embrace a life of service and to find meaning and purpose in giving back to their communities.
A Life Well Lived; in the end, it is not the years we live, but the life we live in those years that truly matters. As I reflect on my service to Nigeria and Ile-Oluji in particular, I am filled with a sense of gratitude and fulfilment. I know that I have lived a life that has made a positive difference in my area of influence, and that is the greatest reward of all.
How do you see the role of leadership evolving in Nigeria, and what advice do you have for emerging leaders?
The role of leadership in Nigeria is at a critical juncture, and its evolution will be shaped by the country’s complex challenges, including corruption, economic instability, and social inequality. To effectively address these issues, Nigerian leaders must adopt a transformational leadership style, characterized by inspiration, intellectual stimulation, and individualized consideration. Emerging leaders must prioritize transparency in all aspects of governance; leaders must be accountable to those they serve, and leaders should foster a culture of participation and inclusion in governance
Leaders must demonstrate a zero-tolerance approach to corruption, recognizing that it undermines trust, stability, and economic growth. Leaders must lead by example and demonstrate the values and behaviours they expect from others, showcasing integrity, transparency, and accountability. They must foster collaborative relationships, build partnerships with civil society organizations, the private sector, and other stakeholders to leverage expertise, resources, and support.
They should develop the skills and competencies necessary to effectively address Nigeria’s complex challenges; stay connected with the people; remain grounded and connected to the needs, aspirations, and concerns of the people you serve.
What values have shaped you into the man you are today? Which of these do you hope future generations will uphold?
Integrity
Hard work, perseverance, respect, empathy, responsibility, accountability, gratitude, and humility
At 70, what does success mean to you? Has your definition of success changed over time?
At 70, if I were reflecting on my life and being asked to define success, I would say that success is about living with purpose, integrity, and gratitude, trusting that every step, every challenge, and every triumph was part of God’s plan for me. Success isn’t just about wealth or achievements but about the richness of relationships, the strength of my character, and the faith I maintained along the way. I would define success as:
- Living a life of purpose: Knowing that my work, actions, and decisions were aligned with my values and my faith. Success is about fulfilling the calling I feel from God, serving others, and leaving a positive impact on the world around me.
- Personal Growth: Success is about constantly striving to grow as a person—learning, improving, and becoming more compassionate, patient, and wise. It’s not about perfection but progress. Sometimes, done is preferred over perfect.
- Faith and Trust: Trusting in God’s faithfulness throughout life, believing that He’s always guiding me even in the most uncertain times. Hard work is important, but I believe success is also shaped by surrendering to God’s timing and plan.
- Meaningful Relationships: Success is the people I’ve loved, the friendships I’ve nurtured, and the family I’ve supported. It’s about being there for others and creating a legacy of kindness and love.
- Contentment and Peace: Success is being content with what I’ve achieved, while maintaining peace in my heart, knowing I’ve done my best with what I’ve been given. It’s about trusting that God will provide for what’s needed and having the peace to accept what I can’t control.
In the end, success is knowing I worked hard, stayed faithful, and trusted that God’s grace was at work in my life every step of the way in all ways.
What are the most important lessons life has taught you about family, relationships, and personal fulfilment?
As I mark my 70th birthday, I am filled with gratitude and reflection on the invaluable lessons life has taught me. Family, relationships, and personal fulfilment have been the cornerstone of my journey, and I’d like to share some of the most significant insights I’ve gained.
Family: The Anchor of Life: Family has been my everything. I’ve learned that family is not just about blood ties; it’s about the people who become your rock, your support system, and your safe haven. My family has taught me the importance of unconditional love, forgiveness, and acceptance. They’ve shown me that family is a bond that can weather any storm, and I am forever grateful for their presence in my life.
Relationships: Understanding the Different Roles: I’ve come to realize that relationships are like the various parts of a spaceship heading for orbit. Each person plays a specific role, and some will be with you for the entire journey, while others will join or leave at different stages. Some relationships will bring joy and cherished memories, while others may leave scars and betrayals. It’s essential to understand and accept the different roles people play in your life and to put each relationship into perspective.
Personal Fulfilment: Embracing Contentment: As I’ve grown older, I’ve learned that personal fulfilment is not about achieving greatness or accumulating wealth; it’s about finding contentment in what life has given you. Gratitude is the key to happiness, and I’ve made it a daily prayer to appreciate the blessings in my life. I’ve also come to understand that life is like a game of football – the strategy for the second half will be different from the first. As we age, our energy levels may wane, but our wisdom and understanding of the game increase. It’s essential to adapt and adjust our approach to life as we navigate its different stages.
Reflections on Life’s Journey: As I look back on my life, I am reminded that: Family is the foundation of life; Relationships are complex and multifaceted; Personal fulfilment comes from contentment and gratitude; Life is a journey with different stages, requiring adaptability and wisdom. As I celebrate my 70th birthday, I am filled with a sense of peace, knowing that I’ve lived a life filled with love, laughter, and lessons. I look forward to the remaining chapters of my life, armed with the wisdom and insights gained from my journey so far.
Having witnessed Nigeria’s economic and political evolution, what do you believe are the most urgent steps needed to drive progress?
Nigeria is like a patient who, after years of self-diagnosing and hoping things would get better on their own, has finally walked into the hospital for a proper check-up. The symptoms were obvious—persistent weakness in the currency, chronic inflation, recurring bouts of insecurity, and severe unemployment pains. The test results came back, confirming what many suspected: the economy has been battling a complex illness, one that requires careful and sustained treatment.
Now, the doctors—economic policymakers, financial experts, and reformers—have prescribed a mix of medication: currency stabilization measures, fiscal discipline, investment in infrastructure, and efforts to boost local production. The treatment has begun, but recovery is never instant. Some medications have side effects—subsidy removals pinch, inflation bites, and policy shifts create temporary discomfort. The body, weakened by years of economic mismanagement and over-reliance on a single resource, is struggling to adjust.
This is a fragile recovery. There will be good days and bad days. Some symptoms might temporarily worsen before real healing begins. The key is consistency—sticking to the right prescriptions, avoiding harmful habits like policy flip-flops and corruption, and ensuring the patient doesn’t abandon the treatment halfway through. Ultimately, if Nigeria stays the course, builds resilience, and allows time for the medication to take full effect, the prognosis could be bright. The nation has the potential to regain its strength, stand tall, and thrive once again. But like any recovering patient, patience, discipline, and the right care will make all the difference.
What are the things you would consider as your major achievements in life, career, and business?
I like the fact that I have managed to build a Sola Akinfemiwa family with my wife, Dr Mrs Omotayo Akinfemiwa. I am a proud father of 4 adults and 5 grandchildren.
I got to the top of my career in banking.
I like what I have done so far to impact the lives around me.
What role do you see for the private sector in shaping a more prosperous Nigeria?
Private sector: Push entrepreneurship and growth of small and medium-sized enterprises to create jobs and stimulate economic growth; Invest in human capital, training and human development programmes; create hubs for innovation and incubators for innovation, research, and development; Infrastructure development through private-public partnerships; Economic diversification: Reduce dependence on imports via value chain development; Good Governance and Transparency: Push anti-corruption and encourage world best practices.
You have aged gracefully and remain vibrant. What are your personal secrets to good health, longevity, and maintaining a sound mind?
This is due to a combination of intentional habits, self-care, and a positive mindset; Moderate physical exercise. Walking is a fundamental exercise. Cardiovascular activities are recommended by experts. What you eat as one grows older, one must be more intentional about what one consumes. Sleep is major. One must be intentional about getting the recommended 8 hours of sleep. And now I give napping good consideration; Water too is essential, stay hydrated; avoid thinking negatively. You are what you harbour in your subconscious; Stay connected. Avoid being disconnected from your social network, family, loved ones, and friends; Build a sense of belonging; Keep busy with some hobbies that you enjoy.
Keep learning, lifelong learning, don’t ever stop. There is nothing like retirement; I do online courses, Do puzzles and brain games, stay close to professionals for Health care, Positive attitude, resilience, and self-care. In all, it is nice to know one’s purpose in life, one’s passion, and to pursue things that give meaning to life, and pursue a definite direction. Take a calculated risk and step out of your comfort zone. Challenge yourself always. I will always live a life of gratitude. Go through what you are thankful for each day to cultivate a positive mindset and imbibe an attitude of contentment.
How do you stay mentally and physically active at this stage in life?
I am aware that I have to be physically good. I keep the 30-minute minimum exercise as much as I can. I avoid sitting at any spot for more than 30 minutes. I am on the treadmill most mornings. I also do a lot of mental stimulation such as reading. I’m an avid reader and enjoy reading books on History, Philosophy, and autobiographies. Reading helps keep my mind active, expands my knowledge, and broadens my perspectives. Also, I am learning new skills. I believe in lifelong learning and I try to learn new skills or hobbies every year.
In terms of social engagement, I volunteer my time and skills to help where I can. I spend time with family and friends; I prioritize spending time with loved ones, which helps me to stay connected, supported, and mentally stimulated. I stay active working as member of boards, running organizations, and thereby connecting with professionals.
On health and wellness, I embark on regular health check-ups to monitor my physical and mental health. I embrace healthy eating, trying to follow a balanced diet regimen. For stress management, I practise stress-reducing techniques such as avoiding what will give me stress. Avoidance technique, some people will say. In the past, when I was younger, I took on everything and was a big worrier.
You have successfully made the Ile-Oluji Assembly a foremost development partner of the community. Please share your experience with us.
The Ile-Oluji Assembly (IA) is an idea whose time has come. It is a remarkable initiative that came into being seven years ago, and its time has truly come and served its purpose. It is what it is today due to the unwavering support and goodwill it received from the Ile-Oluji throne, HRM Oba Olufaderin Adetimehin, and the Jegun-in-Council. The Assembly was carried on the wings of the Palace, and if it seems we have achieved so much, it is only because we stood on the strong shoulders of elders in the palace.
It is important to acknowledge that before the Ile-Oluji Assembly, many development agents, organizations, and associations worked tirelessly for the betterment of Ile-Oluji Kingdom. For instance, Gboluji Grammar School was built by the people, even when it was later handed over to the Anglican Church for government approval, and stands as a testament to those efforts. I also fondly remember the time of Chief Henry Oloyede Fajemirokun while growing up, with a couple of our parents built the first post office. There is also the Supreme Club, which initiated the celebration of Ile-Oluji Day. More notably, the Ile-Oluji Development Council (IDC) has been a driving force in pushing for socio-economic development in our community for many years. We must salute those who gave their time to serve in the IDC.
The Assembly itself began on the WhatsApp Chat platform of the Ile-Oluji Times, led by Oloye Onigegeara Ademola Akinbola. Through conversations on this platform, some passionate Ile-Oluji patriots, including Engr. Sam Adegboyega, Pastor Wole Oladiyun, YinkaSalard Akinterinwa, Chief Boye Adegbemisoye, and others contributed their thoughts on the development of the kingdom. I remember our earlier attempts to push development ideas through platforms like the Ile-Oluji Economic Summit.
It was Engr. Sam Adegboyega who suggested that we revive the Economic Summit idea as we chatted on the Ile-Oluji Times Platform, and from there, the idea of the Ile-Oluji Assembly began to take shape. The conversations we had on the Ile-Oluji Times platform eventually led to the creation of a separate space to document our discussions and move forward with them. For me, and I believe for many of my co-patriots, including Mr. Oladunjoye Oyewumi, the motivation was the wind of change blowing through the community, sparked by the arrival of a new King who brought fresh energy and vision. Many of us had worked with Kabiyesi on various development projects in the past, and this new phase allowed us to step up again.
After a few meetings, we appointed ourselves as the think tank for Kabiyesi and presented our recommendations to the Palace. The King received us warmly, alongside the Jegun-in-Council and Mrs. Modupe Phebean Ogunsusi, the Chairperson of the IDC. After listening attentively, Kabiyesi expressed his gratitude and urged us to go ahead and implement the recommendations. This was the pivotal moment that marked the birth of the new Ile-Oluji Assembly, which soon grew into something more than just a think tank.
As we progressed, we reached out to respected members of the Ile-Oluji community to join the Assembly, aiming to gather the best and brightest to lead the development efforts. I remember the personal visits my wife and I made, including to Pastor Wole & Pastor Mrs. Bukola Oladiyun, and the many discussions at the offices of Pastor Oladiyun with Mrs. Akinyemiju, Ms. Kemi Akinterinwa, and Tuke Adekeye in attendance. One notable meeting also was with Engr. Sam Adegboyega, where we explored the idea of creating a platform for government and political engagement. We achieved much in those early stages.
The core vision at the outset was simple: to encourage each member of the community to contribute to the economic development of Ile-Oluji, even in little ways. We emphasized the importance of inclusion, with the cry of “Ubuntu” ringing in our ears. The idea was to leverage our collective social capital for the growth and prosperity of the community. The Assembly thrived on trust, transparency, and the leadership of the best minds from Ile-Oluji. Over time, we were able to attract new members, both locally and in the diaspora, who shared our vision. Some of the early members who played a key role include Baba Femi Oyawale, Dr. Tunde Ogunsusi, Mr. Tunde & Mrs. Adun Akinyemiju, Pastor Akin Olusuyi, Engr. Sam Adegboyega, YinkaSalard Akinterinwa, Baba Jomu Akinfemiwa, and many others, including the late Prince. Dr. Bunmi Adejayan and Dr. Tayo Ojo, among others, also made significant contributions.
Today, the Ile-Oluji Assembly remains a relevant gathering of the community’s most esteemed individuals, continuing to thrive because we sold the values of trust and accountability. The Assembly has truly become a symbol of the unity, strength, and potential of the Ile-Oluji Kingdom.
If you could give one final message to young Nigerians looking up to you, what would it be?
Believe in yourself; never give up on your country. With a teeming population of Nigerian youths, a lot can be achieved. Tap into your creativity, innovation, and resilience. Youths must bring change; get involved and demand change. Don’t stay in the same spot, engage in the country’s democratic process, and demand accountability at all levels. To Nigeria’s youth, I say there will always be challenges, face your challenges and go out and make your mark, and create a better society for all.
If you were to advise the Jegun-in-Council, what would you tell them about taking Ile-Oluji to the next level?
The Palace has made tremendous strides in being inclusive across various endeavours and has taken significant steps forward in many areas, particularly in the realm of infrastructure. The progress has been remarkable, and there’s no denying that these developments have helped shape the community’s growth. I must also commend the Palace for its efforts in bringing together all the sons and daughters of Ile-Oluji. The unity and harmony we’ve witnessed in the community have contributed to a period of relative peace and prosperity.
However, as part of the Ile-Oluji Assembly, I will prioritize a crucial agenda: the management of the infrastructure that has been built over the past few years. We must establish a system to oversee these assets to ensure they don’t become burdens. An asset that demands maintenance costs from the community without generating sustainable revenue is, in effect, a liability. As we move forward, the community’s focus should shift from addressing infrastructural development to fostering growth-oriented actions. This should include a concerted effort to promote values, principles, and standards that guide both individual and collective behaviour, especially in how we interact and make decisions. We already have a moral compass that outlines what is right and wrong, and it is essential that we reinforce these values at every level of society.
Education remains a pillar of transformation. Just as we have invested in electricity, I advocate for a similar commitment to improving numeracy and literacy in our community. Education holds the power to change lives, and it is imperative that we invest in it as a means of securing a better future.
Additionally, I will push for the community to have a stronger presence at all levels of government. We need to ensure that Ile-Oluji is represented in every sphere of governance, and for this, we require expert guidance to help navigate the complexities of the political landscape. The current arrangement of the local government, especially concerning the riverine areas, often feels dismissive of our needs. Our politicians must engage with us in a meaningful way.
To stimulate economic development and sustainable growth, we must focus on managing the urbanization of our community, ensuring that the changes we undergo are purposeful and aligned with our long-term goals. Finally, we should invest in a legacy project that prepares our youth for the next phase of growth and development in Ile-Oluji. The future of our community depends on the readiness of the next generation to take on leadership roles and drive progress. In conclusion, while the community has made great strides, there is still much work to be done. With a strategic focus on infrastructure management, values development, education, political engagement, urbanization, and youth empowerment, we can continue to build a brighter future for Ile-Oluji.
