Unveiling the essence of local development: A call to action, by Oba Adedokun Omoniyi Abolarin

The official unveiling of the Adire Osun logo yesterday, marks a significant milestone in our journey towards promoting indigenous development. As I reflect on this momentous occasion, I am reminded of the wise words of Rev. E. H Nightingale B.D, Principal of Wesley College, Ibadan, in 1929, Nightingale, was the Principal of Chief Obafemi Awolowo, the leader of the Yoruba after the legendary ODUDUWA : According to him “Emphasis must be on things that are indigenous to us: our language , our culture and our style of dress” in order to promote massive development.

These profound words resonate deeply, emphasizing the importance of embracing our local heritage, traditions, and resources to drive meaningful growth. This philosophy is beautifully encapsulated in my late mother’s wise saying: “Abe se si ita ko se si Ile, emi o fe” – “We must first be good inside before the outside.”

This adage underscores the need to focus on internal development, cultivating our unique strengths, values, and cultural identity. By doing so, we create a solid foundation for sustainable growth, empowering our communities to thrive from within.

The Adire Osun initiative embodies this vision, celebrating our rich cultural heritage and promoting local economic development. As we embark on this journey, let us remember that true progress begins with a deep appreciation for our indigenous roots.

Together, let us harness the power of local development, unlocking the full potential of our communities. By embracing our unique strengths and cultural identity, we can create a brighter future for ourselves, our children, and generations to come.

Long live Adire Osun! Long live local development!”