- Fifth edition of the empowerment programme successfully held, led by youths under Comrade Saheed Olaide
- Artisans empowered with tools while solar lights distributed to improve livelihoods and energy access
- Kabiyesi applauds youths, describing the initiative as a symbol of unity, responsibility, and community progress
Beyond the rich cultural displays and spiritual rites that defined the Kilajolu Festival in Odo Egiri Kingdom, a major highlight of this year’s celebration was a well-structured empowerment programme that delivered real impact to members of the community.
Eko Hot Blog reports that the initiative, now in its fifth edition, has grown into a key component of the annual festival, reflecting a strong commitment to community development.
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It is consistently organized and executed by the youths of Odo Egiri under the leadership of the Youth Chairman, Comrade Saheed Olaide, whose vision has continued to drive meaningful change at the grassroots level.
The programme has, over the years, become a symbol of youth responsibility, unity, and proactive leadership within the kingdom.
This year’s empowerment saw beneficiaries drawn from various vocational fields receive tools and support to enhance their productivity and economic independence.
Bricklayers and carpenters were equipped with professional working tools to improve efficiency on the job, while hairdressers and tailors received essential equipment to boost their businesses and expand their services.
The initiative was carefully structured to target individuals who would immediately put the resources to use, thereby creating a ripple effect of growth within the local economy.
In addition to skill-based empowerment, the programme also addressed energy challenges within the community.
Solar lights were distributed to selected residents, particularly in areas with limited or inconsistent power supply.
This intervention is expected to improve daily living conditions, enhance safety at night, and support small-scale business activities that depend on lighting.
Speaking on the initiative, the Aladepekun of Odo Egiri Kingdom, Oba Musiliu Abiola Oliwo, commended the youths for their foresight, dedication, and consistency in sustaining the programme over the years.
“This empowerment programme is a clear demonstration of unity, responsibility, and progress. I am proud of our youths for sustaining this initiative.
It shows that they are not only preserving our culture but also actively contributing to the growth and development of our community,” he said.
He further emphasized the importance of such programmes in complementing traditional values with modern development efforts.
“When our youths take up initiatives like this, it gives hope for a better future. This is how communities grow—through collective effort and genuine concern for one another,” he added.
Also speaking, the Youth Chairman, Comrade Saheed Olaide, highlighted the motivation behind the initiative and its continuity.
“This is the fifth edition of our empowerment programme, and it is something we are committed to sustaining every year alongside the Kilajolu Festival.
Our aim is to give back to our people, support small businesses, and encourage self-reliance among residents,” he stated.
He noted that the programme is carefully planned each year to ensure transparency, fairness, and maximum impact.
“We identify those who truly need support and ensure that what they receive will make a difference in their lives. This is about building our community together,” he added.
Beneficiaries and residents expressed deep appreciation for the initiative, describing it as timely, impactful, and inspiring.
“This support has lifted a burden off me. With these tools, I can now work better and earn more for my family,” one of the beneficiaries shared.
Another resident noted, “The youths have shown great leadership. This is something that should be encouraged because it directly touches lives.”
The empowerment programme not only complemented the cultural significance of the Kilajolu Festival but also reinforced the message that tradition and development can go hand in hand.
It stood as a testament to the power of youth-driven initiatives and the importance of investing in people as a pathway to sustainable community growth.
