By Babalola Gafar
The shopping complex, named in her honor, is expected to serve as a major commercial hub that will transform economic activities in the area and beyond.
Expressing her gratitude, Mrs. Abiodun commended the Chairman of Abeokuta North Local Government, Hon. Lanre Oyegbola-Sodipo, and his executive team for the recognition. She also appreciated the people of Abeokuta North for their continuous support.
“It is an honor to me and my family that this modern shopping complex is being named after me today. I express my heartfelt thanks to the chairman and his team for this distinguished recognition. I also thank the good people of Abeokuta North for their support,” she said.
Highlighting the significance of markets in economic growth, Mrs. Abiodun noted that modern markets like Lafenwa represent the future of commerce.
“Markets have always been the heartbeat of commerce in any society, and modern markets like this one will create a more conducive environment for trade, enhance economic development, and improve the overall business experience for traders and buyers alike,” she added.
She emphasized the commitment of Governor Dapo Abiodun’s administration to partnering with local governments in developing and modernizing markets across the state.
“The Governor, His Excellency Dapo Abiodun and his administration have been committed to work with the local government to develop and modernize market across the state
“This beautiful lafenwa market stands as an example of what can be achieve when you prioritize economic empowerment of our people.
Market such as this one is critical, not only for trade but also for food security.
“With the provision of electricity and modern storage facilities, traders can store perishable goods for longer and ensuring steady supply of food for our people”She said.
Speaking at the event, the Chairman of Abeokuta North Local Government Hon. Lanre Oyegbola-Sodipo described the commissioning as a testament to good governance and continuity in leadership.
He revealed that the project was initiated by the previous administration, led by Prince Abdul-Salam Ayorinde, and was successfully completed under his leadership.
“This project is a phase of the redevelopment of Lafenwa Market. In a few months, the second phase will be ready for commissioning. We also have four other similar projects ongoing across Abeokuta North, which will be completed soon,” Oyegbola-Sodipo said.
The chairman acknowledged that development might come with some inconveniences but reassured residents that every part of Abeokuta North would feel the impact of his administration.
He also credited Governor Abiodun for supporting local governments, enabling them to embark on innovative projects.
“In line with the governor’s vision, we have introduced several initiatives. Two days after our inauguration, we enrolled 300 elderly women into the health insurance scheme, fully paid for.
“And also we have introduced a few initiative, we ensure that places we saw the Governor was lighting up Ogun State, we said we have to light up Abeokuta North and so today from ward 1 to ward 16 in Abeokuta North we have solar lights, we have deployed more than 800 solar lights in all of the 16 wards.
“We try to focus on women, if you develop a woman and you develop a girl child then you’ve started building the home and because the home is the smallest unit of the society, what we are doing is that you are building a society and we must build a society.
The APC Chairman of Abeokuta North, Alhaja Faidat Sarumi Akintunde, lauded the governor’s wife and praised the local government chairman for his efforts, assuring him of continued support from market women and the community.
Similarly, the Senior Special Assistant on Inter-Ethnic Affairs to the Governor, Prince Hadi Sani, commended Hon. Oyegbola-Sodipo for his inclusive leadership, particularly the appointment of an Arewa community representative, Mr. Idris Beita, as Special Assistant on Inter-Ethnic Affairs and Livestock Development.
“The kind of initiative our chairman is bringing on board is something we cherish so much. He has reformed the entire system, and that’s why we are always here to support him,” Prince Sani stated.
Dignitaries present were: Hon. Ganiu Hamzat, Commissioner for Chieftaincy and Local Government Affairs; Hon. Taiyelolu Egbeyemi, Vice Chairman of Abeokuta North Local Government; the Head of Local Government Administration, Mrs. Kikelomo Ajayi; and the Olowu of Owu, Oba Saka Adelola Matemilola, represented by Chief Olusola Adeoye, were present.
Also in attendance were Hon. Adekunle Adesina, Princess Ojaronke Ogunremi, Ogun State APC Organizing Secretary Yemi Adelani (Igwe), the Leader of the Local Government Legislative House, Hon. Moruf Erubami, Deputy Leader Hon. Waheed Akomolafe, and Secretary to the Local Government, Alhaja Mutiat Agbaje, among others.
