Stakeholders from Ondo Kingdom has urged its people to intensify their respective efforts to driving more investment and economic activities in the kingdom.
While speaking at the ground breaking ceremony of the first ‘cocoa cottage processing factory’, which was facilitated by the federal lawmaker, representing Ondo East/West Federal Constituency, Hon Abiola Makinde, the stakeholders harped on the need for the people to see community development beyond the input of the government.
Speaking at the event which was held at the Eki Industrial Hub, which housed the new ‘cocoa cottage processing factory’, renowned industrialist, Dr Femi Akinkuebi pointed out that “community development is a partnership between government and the people, but the people must take the lead”.
While commending Hon. Makinde for taking advantage of the Eki Industrial Hub to cite the new project, he also revealed that the hub has been projected to become an essential part of the state’s economy due to its vast range of features, including uninterrupted power supply, water, security, and internet facilities.
“One of the most critical features of the Eki Industrial Hub is its uninterrupted power supply. This feature ensures that industries in the hub can operate efficiently without experiencing power outages, which can result in significant losses. With the hub’s uninterrupted power supply, industries can focus on their operations and increase productivity.”
Also, Dr. Nelson Osungbemiro, stated that “the government can create an environment that supports development,but it’s ultimately up to the community itself to identify its needs and develop its own solutions”.
His views was also shared by the chairman of Ekinvest, Mr. Bimbo Oladapo, who urged the people to tap into the business friendly atmosphere of Eki-Industrial hub to birth sustainable businesses and project which will contribute more to the development of the community.
“Community development is a shared responsibility, we all have a role to play in creating vibrant, inclusive and thriving communities,” he stated. While Hon. Akinlaja, reiterated the need for the community to open its arms in welcoming and accommodating investors in the community.
He also added that the Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu.SAN led administration will continue to give all the support needed to foster more public and private partnership for community development in the kingdom.
The Osemawe of Ondo Kingdom, Oba Victor Ademefun Kiladejo, Jilo III, also urged the people both home and abroad to intensify their efforts to pushing for more projects to sustain the progress which is currently being witnessed in the kingdom.
“Community development is not just about government programs, it is about engaging all of us, neighbors, businesses, non-profits, to take ownership and pride in our community”, he said.