Okemagba Development Association to Foster Community Growth at 2024 Presidential Gala

The Okemagba Development Association (ODA) is set to organise its Presidential Gala event for 2024 on Sunday, December 15, 2024.

Speaking about the event, the incumbent chairman of the association, Otunba Felix Awolaja, stated that the Gala is not just a celebration but a call to action for all members of the community to rally together and contribute to the development of Okemagba.

He said, “The event will not only feature fundraising and an awards ceremony but also serve as an avenue for our members to deliberate on key issues critical to the socio-economic development of our community.”

Similarly, Prince Segun Osifeko, Vice President 1, stressed the importance of addressing key issues, noting, “This event is a platform for meaningful discussions on critical topics such as youth employment and infrastructural development.

“These are pillars for a brighter future for Okemagba, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure progress in these areas, he told EKO HOT BLOG.

Prince Shamsideen Adeniyi, RHE Publicity Secretary of the association on his part, stressed that the event will provide an opportunity to reflect on their heritage and envision a stronger, more prosperous future for Okemagba.

His words, “This gathering provides an opportunity for all sons and daughters of Okemagba to reconnect and collaborate for the growth of our beloved community. It’s a time to reflect on our heritage and envision a stronger, more prosperous Okemagba.”

Okemagba is a community of 11 villages: Odoajogun, Odoayan, Odogbawojo, Odoragunshin, Odoshiwola, Odoyangushin, Odoroga, Ibonwon, Igboye, Ilara, and Eredo.

The Okemagba Development Association was established in 1975 by leaders of thought who envisioned an organisation where all sons and daughters of Okemagba could contribute to the development of their community.

Among its illustrious founders are Chief Moshood Olaitan Musa, the first indigenous Lagos State Fire Service Chief and pioneer president; Alhaji R. Ola Sodiq, a renowned Peugeot automobile dealer; Chief Tele Olukoya, the Baba Adini of Yorubaland; Chief S. O. Bakare of Oluwalogbon Motors; Chief Michael Agbolade Otedola, the former Governor of Lagos State; and Dr. Ogunkelu, former Minister of Health, among others.

The association’s influence waned over the years as its pioneers aged, but it was revitalized under the leadership of younger members such as Pastor Mrs. Mabawonku and Chief Paul Awolaja.

Their efforts culminated in the election of Otunba Felix Awolaja as the incumbent chairman, breathing new life into the association.

The ODA continues to be a prestigious network of forward-thinking individuals, leveraging Okemagba’s cultural heritage and socio-economic potential to create thriving, self-sufficient communities.

Its vision is to be the foremost community-centric organisation in the Epe Division and Lagos State, fostering a vibrant and prosperous Okemagba.

This year’s Presidential Gala will feature a musical performance by the Afro-Juju icon, Sir Shina Peters, and his Afro-Juju band.