In today’s world, when the zeal to champion noble causes has dwindled significantly, there is a need for people of like minds to come together to revive excellence across various facets of human endeavours.
This has been the Osun Development Association’s (ODA) mission since its formation in 1995 before Nigeria’s return to democratic governance. The Association began with less than 10 members and has become a force to reckon with in the scheme of things in Osun State as a non-partisan, non-sectarian group aiming to improve non-governmental initiatives in the state.
This distinguished assembly of non-partisan prominent indigenes of Osun State, which comprises elders, thought leaders, technocrats, and professionals, have continued to raise the bar for indigenes of Osun State, thereby contributing enormously to the development of the state through their professional callings. The non-governmental development body is dedicated to improving the people’s quality of life and the development of Osun State in general.
With the emergence of a new set of leaders in the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the state has produced iconic leaders, which would encourage her teeming youths. These iconic leaders are the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola, CON; Chief of Army Staff, General Taoreed Lagbaja, and Comptroller General of Nigeria Customs Service, Mr. Wale Adeniyi, MFR.
The Association rolled out the drums to recognize and honour their sons and brothers who have made a lasting impact in society and demonstrated excellence in their various fields, thereby playing up the relevance of the state in Nigeria.
The event was also an opportunity to reflect on the positive influence these towering figures have made on society and underscored the importance of recognizing and preserving their legacies.
“The Chairman of ODA, Dr Segun Aina, OFR, noted that the Association had played a crucial role in shaping the socio-economic fortunes of the state through its various interventions, such as peace and conflict resolutions, policy advocacy, public enlightenment programmes, thought leadership, investment facilitation, amongst others.
Dr Aina further noted that the Association has also been a great pillar of intellectual and material support to every successive government in the state. ODA has become a case study of how professionals can come together to support the growth and development of their respective states. As 2024 beckons, states need to mobilize domestic and foreign direct investments to unlock economic opportunities, and we will not relent in doing this for our dear state.
“The dignitaries we are honouring today will provide an opportunity to exchange useful ideas and thoughts with them and also give our support to enhance excellent performance during their tenure,” he added.
To boost the membership of the association, 14 new members were inducted into the prestigious group, marking a significant expansion in its ranks. The selection process for new members was rigorous, focusing on individuals who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to the group’s values and principles. Each inductee was introduced with a brief overview of their accomplishments, highlighting the reasons for their selection. The ceremony served as a platform to emphasize the group’s commitment to fostering positive change and collaboration.
One notable aspect of the event was the emphasis on diversity and inclusivity. The newly inducted members represented a broad spectrum of expertise, backgrounds, and perspectives. This commitment to diversity reflects the group’s recognition of the multifaceted nature of societal challenges and the need for a diverse range of skills and experiences to address them effectively.
The association used this august occasion to reiterate its dedication to community engagement. The event served as an opportunity for members to discuss ongoing and future initiatives to address pressing social issues. The group’s collaborative approach to problem-solving was evident as members exchanged ideas and shared their visions for a better, more inclusive society.
Every state needs a group akin to the Osun Development Association to ODA. that will be a think-tank and a progressive partner for the political class in championing noble causes. The sprawling trajectory of theOsun Development Association to ODA. has created a forum through which people can effortlessly contribute to the state’s geometric growth now and in the near future.
