Northeast Industrial Crisis Deepens as Insecurity Forces Closure of 60% of Factories — MAN DG

      Dr. Segun Ajayi-Kadir

The Director-General   Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Dr. Segun Ajayi-Kadir, has raised concerns over the worsening impact of insecurity on industrial activities in the Northeast, revealing that approximately 60 per cent of industries in the region have shut down operations.

Ajayi-Kadir made the disclosure while receiving members of the Executive Council of the Congress of Industrialists and Corporate Affairs Correspondents Association of Nigeria (CICAN) during a courtesy visit to the association's headquarters in Lagos.

According to him, persistent security challenges, including insurgency, banditry, and other violent crimes, have created a hostile business environment that has forced many manufacturers to either suspend production or relocate their operations.

Insecurity Taking a Heavy Toll on Industry

The MAN Director-General noted that prolonged insecurity has severely disrupted supply chains, increased production costs, and displaced numerous industries that once played vital roles in job creation and economic development across the Northeast.

He explained that many industrial facilities in the region have become inactive, while potential investors remain reluctant to establish new manufacturing plants or expand existing operations due to concerns about the safety of personnel, equipment, and investments.

"The closure and displacement of industries have resulted in the loss of thousands of jobs, increased poverty levels, and reduced economic opportunities for residents of the affected states," he said.

Ajayi-Kadir stressed that sustainable industrial growth cannot thrive in an atmosphere of insecurity and urged the Federal Government and security agencies to intensify efforts to restore peace and stability in the region.

He added that improved security would encourage displaced manufacturers to return, attract new investments, and help revive economic activities across the Northeast.

Call for Targeted Support

Beyond addressing security concerns, Ajayi-Kadir called for targeted intervention measures to support struggling industries. These include improved infrastructure, easier access to financing, and incentives aimed at rebuilding the region's industrial base.

Despite the challenges, he expressed optimism that the Northeast could reclaim its status as a major hub for manufacturing and commerce if security conditions improve and government support remains consistent.

Economic Reforms Showing Early Signs of Progress

The MAN chief commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for introducing bold economic reforms aimed at repositioning the nation's economy, noting that some policies have started yielding positive results.

However, he lamented that many Nigerians are yet to fully experience the benefits of these reforms due to the activities of economic saboteurs and other systemic challenges.

He urged Nigerians to embrace aggressive industrialisation as a pathway to reducing dependence on imported goods, strengthening local production, and building a more resilient economy.

Dangote Refinery Eases Pressure on Fuel Market

Ajayi-Kadir also praised the Dangote Petroleum Refinery, describing it as a strategic national asset whose operations have provided significant relief for Nigerians.

According to him, the refinery has helped cushion the impact of global tensions, particularly the ongoing conflict in the Gulf region, which could have triggered sharp increases in domestic petroleum prices.

Tax Reforms Require Careful Implementation

Commenting on the country's new tax regime, Ajayi-Kadir described the reforms as a positive development capable of enhancing the business environment. However, he warned that poor implementation could undermine the objectives of the policy and negatively affect the manufacturing sector.

He reaffirmed MAN's commitment to protecting the interests of manufacturers and advocating policies that address the challenges facing businesses across the country.

Media Remains Key Partner in Development

The MAN Director-General also acknowledged the important role of the media in promoting national development, describing journalists and industry correspondents as critical partners in advancing economic growth and public awareness.

He pledged the association's continued support for CICAN in the discharge of its professional responsibilities.

Earlier, CICAN Chairman, Alhaji Taiwo Hassan, said the visit was aimed at strengthening the long-standing relationship between the association and MAN.

Hassan disclosed that CICAN has concluded plans to intensify the promotion of the Made-in-Nigeria campaign to encourage patronage of locally manufactured products and support indigenous industries.

He noted that the initiative would contribute to job creation, increased industrial productivity, foreign exchange conservation, and overall national economic development.

"As stakeholders in economic reporting, we remain committed to supporting initiatives that promote local manufacturing and strengthen Nigeria's industrial sector," Hassan said. 

Africa’s Largest Bank Backs Dangote Refinery IPO, Pledges Support for Expansion

 

STANDARD BANK (2): Group Vice President, Oil & Gas, Dangote Industries Limited, Devakumar Edwin; Chairman, Stanbic IBTC Holdings, Sola David Borha; Chief Executive Officer, Standard Bank Group, Sim Tshabalala; and Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Dangote Petroleum Refinery & Petrochemicals, David Bird, during a strategic visit by Standard Bank Group executives to the Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Dangote Fertiliser complex in Ibeju Lekki, Lagos.

Africa's largest financial institution, Standard Bank Group, has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the growth of Dangote Industries Limited, expressing readiness to play a key role in the planned Initial Public Offering (IPO) of the Dangote Petroleum Refinery and to finance future expansion projects across Africa.

The commitment was made during a strategic visit by Standard Bank Group Chief Executive Officer, Sim Tshabalala, alongside senior executives, to the Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Dangote Fertiliser complex in Lagos.

Following a tour of the facilities, Tshabalala described the refinery as a transformative industrial project with significant implications for Nigeria’s economy and the broader African continent.

According to him, the Dangote Group has become a major force in Africa’s industrial landscape, making it a critical partner for the bank.

“We are here because the Dangote Group is a large and important global player and a significant force on the African continent,” Tshabalala said. “Standard Bank is the largest financial institution in Africa and we have partnered with Dangote on a variety of initiatives. We are here to lend support, witness this remarkable refinery, and discuss Vision 2030 and how we can continue supporting the Group’s growth ambitions.”

Support for Refinery IPO

Tshabalala disclosed that Standard Bank intends to take a leading role in the refinery’s forthcoming IPO while also providing financial advisory and funding support for future projects.

“As Dangote lists, there is an IPO coming up and we are a leading player in that process,” he said. “As the Group continues to expand in Nigeria and across Africa, there will be opportunities for financial advisory services and balance-sheet support, and we stand ready to provide both.”

He further described the refinery as “a wonder of the world,” citing its contributions to foreign exchange earnings, improved balance-of-payments performance, and enhanced energy security.

“This is a wonder to behold. It is massive, productive and transformative. It is already making a significant contribution to Nigeria’s economy through its impact on foreign reserves, the balance of payments and the lives of ordinary Nigerians,” he added.

Partnership Bearing Fruit

Group Vice President, Oil and Gas, Dangote Industries Limited, Devakumar Edwin, noted that the visit marked an important milestone in a relationship that began during the refinery’s construction phase.

“The bank visited us during construction and understood the scale of what we were building,” Edwin said. “Today, the refinery is fully operational and they can see what their support has helped to create. It is like nurturing a tree and eventually seeing it bear fruit.”

He added that both organisations are exploring opportunities to deepen collaboration as Dangote expands its industrial operations across the continent.

Long-Term Collaboration

Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Dangote Petroleum Refinery, David Bird, highlighted the value of long-term partnerships in delivering projects of such magnitude.

“Standard Bank has been one of our strongest supporters throughout the history of the refinery and the broader Dangote Group,” Bird said.

“This visit was an opportunity to demonstrate what that support has enabled. Seeing is believing, and it allows our partners to appreciate the scale of what has been achieved.”

Refinery Surpasses Design Capacity

The visit also coincided with a significant operational milestone for the refinery. Bird revealed that the facility has exceeded its original design capacity, recently completing performance test runs at 700,000 barrels per day—surpassing its nameplate capacity of 650,000 barrels per day.

“We have always believed there was engineering flexibility built into the design,” he said. “Achieving sustained production of 700,000 barrels per day is a testament to the technical capability of our people and the strength of the systems we have built.”

The achievement underscores the refinery’s growing role in strengthening Nigeria’s energy security, reducing dependence on imported petroleum products, and positioning the country as a major refining hub in Africa. 

GREEN PRINT 2.0: JAWURA,UNION BANK, EXPERTS CALL FOR GREATER GREEN INVESTMENT AND YOUTH-LED CLIMATE ACTION.

 

As the world grapples with the growing challenges of climate change, plastic pollution, and environmental degradation, experts have called for increased investment in nature-based solutions and greater support for youth-led sustainability initiatives.

The call was made during the Green Print Project 2.0 Environmental Fair organized by Jawura Environmental Services Ltd. in Lagos to commemorate World Environment Day 2026.

The event brought together  environmental advocates, financial institutions, academics, government officials, community leaders, students, National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members, and innovators in the sustainability sector to discuss practical solutions for building a greener and more resilient future.

Investing in Nature is Investing in the Future 

Mrs. Olufunmilola Aluko, Chief Brand and Marketing Officer of Union Bank of Nigeria

Delivering a keynote address titled "Investing in Nature for Tomorrow," Mrs. Olufunmilola Aluko, Chief Brand and Marketing Officer of Union Bank of Nigeria, emphasized that environmental sustainability should be viewed as an investment rather than an expense.

According to her, nature remains the foundation of economic prosperity, public health, and community wellbeing.

She highlighted the growing environmental concerns facing Lagos, particularly plastic pollution, noting that millions of tonnes of plastic waste are generated annually across Nigeria, with a significant percentage ending up in landfills, drainage systems, and waterways.

"There is no economy without ecology," she stated. "The returns on investments in nature will ultimately be enjoyed by future generations, and the responsibility to act now rests with all of us."

Aluko disclosed that Union Bank continues to champion sustainability through strategic partnerships, climate-focused initiatives, and educational programmes designed to empower young people and promote environmental consciousness.

She also revealed that the bank is developing a climate strategy aligned with Nigeria's target of achieving net-zero emissions by 2060, while embedding sustainability considerations into its operations, governance structures, and financing decisions.

Green Economy: A Gateway to Youth Employment

Speaking further, Aluko identified the circular economy and renewable energy sectors as major opportunities for tackling youth unemployment.

She noted that waste management activities in Lagos have already created thousands of green jobs, while the global circular economy continues to emerge as one of the fastest-growing sectors worldwide.

With Nigeria's large youth population, she said the country is uniquely positioned to become a hub for green innovation and sustainable entrepreneurship.

"The young entrepreneurs turning waste into wealth are helping to shape the future economy. They deserve the support of governments, businesses, and financial institutions," she said.

She also stressed the importance of collaboration among governments, regulators, private organizations, communities, and civil society groups in addressing environmental challenges.

Building Resilient Cities Through Collective Action

Managing Director and Chief Operating Officer of Jawura Environmental Services, Mr. Tosin Rowland-Osibanjo,

Earlier, the Managing Director and Chief Operating Officer of Jawura Environmental Services, Mr. Tosin Rowland-Osibanjo, described environmental stewardship as a critical pillar of sustainable development.

He explained that the 2026 World Environment Day theme, "Urbanisation and Climate Change: Building Resilient Cities for a Sustainable Future," reflects the realities confronting Lagos and many rapidly expanding cities across Africa.

According to him, rapid urban growth, climate change, and environmental degradation require urgent and coordinated responses from all stakeholders.

"We have the power to change the current trajectory through collective action, innovation, and environmental responsibility," he said.

Rowland-Osibanjo reaffirmed Jawura's commitment to driving environmental awareness, sustainability education, and practical community-based solutions that promote a cleaner and healthier environment.

Environmental Sustainability Must Become a Way of Life

Also speaking at the event, Professor David Esezobur of the University of Lagos emphasized the need for greater environmental awareness among citizens.

The Professor of Sustainable Extractive Methodology and Advanced Material Processing described environmental sustainability as a lifestyle that must be embraced by individuals, communities, institutions, and governments alike.

He observed that environmental issues are closely linked to public health, education, and economic development, making environmental protection a shared responsibility.

"The environment belongs to us and to future generations. Everyone has a role to play in protecting it," he said.

Professor Esezobur encouraged young people to become ambassadors of sustainability by promoting responsible environmental practices in their homes, schools, and communities.

He further highlighted the importance of tree planting, environmental education, and public awareness campaigns in combating climate change, reducing carbon emissions, and improving public health outcomes.

A Growing Movement for Sustainability

The Green Print Project 2.0 Environmental Fair showcased innovative recycling solutions, sustainability products, and environmental initiatives aimed at inspiring action and fostering partnerships.

Participants agreed that achieving a sustainable future will require stronger investments in green initiatives, greater youth participation, environmental education, and collaborative action across all sectors of society.

As conversations around climate change and environmental resilience continue to gain momentum, one message resonated throughout the event: the future of our cities, communities, and planet depends on the actions we take today.#

AGROFOOD NIGERIA 2026 BREAKS INTERNATIONAL RECORD, RETURNS TO LAGOS BIGGER AND BOLDER

Agrofood Nigeria is set to make history in 2026 as the 11th edition records its strongest international participation ever, reaffirming its status as West Africa’s leading agrofood and packaging business platform.

Scheduled to hold from 24 to 26 March 2026 at the Landmark Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos, the exhibition is expected to attract thousands of industry decision-makers, investors, manufacturers, and solution providers from Nigeria and across the region.

 International Participation

This year’s edition will feature over 100 exhibitors from 14 countries across Africa, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and North America — marking the most extensive global presence in the event’s history.

Participating countries include:

Belgium, Brazil, China, France, Germany, India, Malaysia, the Netherlands, Nigeria, Poland, South Africa, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

The exhibition is designed to promote face-to-face engagement, encourage technology transfer, strengthen supply chains, and support informed investment decisions across West Africa’s agrofood ecosystem.

Netherlands Named Guest of Honour

After eight consecutive years of participation, the Netherlands assumes the role of Guest of Honour for 2026.

Led by the Netherlands Consulate-General in Lagos, about 20 Dutch companies will showcase advanced innovations in horticulture, greenhouse systems, seed technologies, food processing, agrologistics, and climate-smart agriculture — reinforcing the country’s reputation as a global agricultural powerhouse.

Strong National Pavilions

Several countries will feature dedicated national pavilions, including:

Belgium/Flanders Pavilion, organised by Flanders Investment & Trade

China Pavilion, featuring over 20 exhibitors in processing and packaging technologies

German Pavilion, supported by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and industry associations, with companies such as GEA Group and Krones AG showcasing advanced “Made in Germany” solutions

India Participation, highlighting premium agricultural commodities and value-addition solutions

South Africa – Western Cape Pavilion, supported by the Western Cape Department of Agriculture

USA Participation, led by the Food Export Association of the Midwest and Northeast USA, introducing American suppliers to Nigerian buyers

Nigeria will also be strongly represented, with leading local agribusinesses and food processors leveraging the platform to expand partnerships and regional market access.

Bigger, More Targeted Layout for 2026

The 2026 edition introduces an optimised hall structure to enhance visitor experience:

Hall 1: Food + Beverage Technology & Packaging

Hall 2: Agro & Food + Hospitality

Hall 3: Food Ingredients

With thousands of targeted business meetings expected, organisers say the event continues to evolve into a regional hub for agro-industrial innovation and investment.

Nigeria’s Growing Agrofood Market

Industry data highlights the sector’s growth potential:

Nigeria imported €265 million worth of food and packaging technology in 2024.

Packaging technology imports alone reached €121 million.

The Nigerian food market is projected to reach $233.53 billion in 2025, with strong annual growth expected through 2030.

Despite local investments, food imports stood at $6.1 billion in 2023, compared to $2.2 billion in exports.

These figures underscore the urgent need for processing capacity, value addition, and export competitiveness — gaps agrofood Nigeria aims to address.

A Trusted Global Platform

Founded in 1991, fairtrade Messe has organised international trade fairs across Africa and the Middle East, connecting emerging markets with global solution providers. The company is ISO 9001:2015 certified and a member of UFI, The Global Association of the Exhibition Industry.

Event Details

Event: agrofood Nigeria 2026 (11th Edition)

Date: 24–26 March 2026

Venue: Landmark Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos

Summary

With record-breaking global participation, strong institutional backing, and expanded exhibition space, agrofood Nigeria 2026 is poised to deepen international partnerships, accelerate technology adoption, and position Nigeria as a competitive agro-industrial hub in West Africa.#

AGROFOOD NIGERIA 2026 TO BOOST INDUSTRIAL COMPETITIVENESS, AS NETHERLANDS HEADLINES 11TH EDITION

Nigeria’s ambition to build a competitive and industrialised food economy is gaining renewed momentum as agrofood Nigeria 2026 prepares to convene key players across the agro-allied value chain.

With agriculture contributing more than 22 percent to the nation’s GDP, stakeholders say the country must urgently tackle persistent challenges such as limited processing capacity, post-harvest losses, rising food inflation, and dependence on imports. The 11th edition of agrofood Nigeria is therefore set to shift focus from primary production to industrial competitiveness, value addition, and export readiness.

Netherlands Leads as Guest of Honour

The Netherlands, globally recognised as one of the most advanced agri-food economies and the second-largest agricultural exporter in the world, will headline the event as Guest of Honour and Lead Country Pavilion Exhibitor.

Dutch exhibitors are expected to showcase cutting-edge solutions in food processing, seed technology, cold chain logistics, packaging, horticulture, and sustainable production systems — offering tested models that could accelerate Nigeria’s agro-industrial scale-up.

Over 15 Countries Confirm Participation

Organisers disclosed that exhibitors from more than 15 countries will participate in the 2026 edition, further cementing agrofood Nigeria’s reputation as West Africa’s leading international agro-industrial marketplace.

Confirmed country pavilions include:

Netherlands – Guest of Honour

Germany – Food processing and packaging engineering

China – Processing machinery and automation technologies

Belgium – Precision farming and circular production systems

South Africa (Western Cape Pavilion) – Regional capabilities showcase

The international showcases are designed to facilitate technology transfer, strategic partnerships, and investment opportunities across Nigeria’s food value chains.

Agrofood Nigeria 2026  to Address Macroeconomics and Export Growth

Day One: Economic Outlook

Day One of the conference will feature respected economist Bismarck Rewane, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Financial Derivatives Company Limited.

He is expected to present a data-driven analysis of inflation trends, foreign exchange pressures, cost of capital, consumer demand, and broader investment signals influencing Nigeria’s agribusiness and food manufacturing sectors.

Day Two: Trade and AfCFTA Opportunities

On Day Two, Yemi Kale, Group Chief Economist at the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), will lead discussions on trade competitiveness and export-led growth.

The sessions will examine how Nigeria’s agro-allied industries can leverage opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to transition from domestic scale to regional and global value chains. 

      I

Industry Bodies Rally Support

Leading business associations have expressed strong backing for the initiative, including:

Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACCIMA)

Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN)

Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI)

Stakeholders emphasised that improving food security and boosting export competitiveness will require policy clarity, private sector investment, technology adoption, and adherence to global quality standards.

According to organisers, Nigeria’s food challenge is no longer about production alone, but about industrialising the sector, reducing losses, and positioning local products to meet international benchmarks.

Event Details

Event: agrofood Nigeria 2026 (11th Edition)

Dates: 24–26 March 2026

Venue: Landmark Centre, Victoria Island Annex, Lagos

Guest of Honour: Netherlands

Overview

agrofood Nigeria 2026 is expected to serve as a high-level business and policy platform aimed at accelerating Nigeria’s agro-industrial transformation. With strong international participation and expert-led discussions, the event seeks to reposition the country’s food sector toward industrial efficiency, value addition, and export-driven growth.#

LASIEC REVIEWS 2025 LOCAL GOVERNMENT ELECTIONS TO DEEPEN DEMOCRACY

The Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) has taken a critical step toward improving grassroots democracy with the convening of a post-election retreat to review the conduct of the 2025 Local Government elections across the state.

The retreat brought together LASIEC officials and key stakeholders to assess the successes recorded during the elections, examine challenges encountered, and draw lessons to guide future electoral exercises.

Speaking at the retreat, the Chairman of LASIEC, Justice Bola Okikiolu-Ighile (rtd.), described the gathering as a strategic move aimed at strengthening democratic processes in Lagos State. She reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to transparency, credibility, and continuous improvement in election management.

According to Justice Okikiolu-Ighile, the retreat created an open forum for stakeholders to frankly discuss operational gaps, logistics, security arrangements, and voter participation observed during the elections. She noted that insights and feedback from the discussions would play a key role in shaping reforms and enhancing electoral procedures ahead of future polls.

Also speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary of LASIEC, Abdul Rafiu Fashola, emphasized the importance of institutional learning in building a more robust electoral system. He explained that the retreat was designed to allow staff and stakeholders to critically examine issues such as logistics, manpower deployment, operational efficiency, and voter turnout.

Fashola stressed that LASIEC remains firmly committed to professionalism and accountability, adding that recommendations from the retreat would be instrumental in improving the quality of future elections in the state.

Earlier, while welcoming participants, the Supervising Commissioner of LASIEC and Chairman, Electoral Training Committee, Hon. Oladele Adekanye, described the retreat as a vital ingredient for achieving credible elections. He underscored the need for continuous training of electoral officers to enhance efficiency, integrity, and strict adherence to electoral guidelines.

Hon. Adekanye disclosed that lessons learnt from the 2025 Local Government elections would be integrated into future training modules for LASIEC personnel, ensuring better preparedness in subsequent elections.

The retreat is expected to culminate in a comprehensive report containing actionable recommendations aimed at further deepening democracy and strengthening electoral governance in Lagos State.

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AJOSE ARILESOLA CDA CHARTS BRIGHTER PATH AT ITS 2025 AGM, CALENDAR LAUNCH & AWARDS CEREMONY

Under the warm Saturday sun of December 6, 2025, the Ajose Arilesola Community Development Association (CDA) came alive with the sound of greetings, laughter, and renewed hope. It was more than an Annual General Meeting. It was a gathering of neighbours determined to shape a stronger, safer, and more united community.

From the colourful display of the new community calendar to the proud smiles of award recipients, the event showcased both the achievements of the past year and the aspirations of the one ahead.

A Year of Progress: Chairman Speak

                                  Alhaji Alimi Quamorudeen 

For the CDA Chairman, Alhaji Alimi Quamorudeen A., the day was an opportunity to reflect on how far the community has come—especially after months spent in darkness due to a faulty transformer.

Standing before residents, he described the successful power restoration as a defining moment.

“Our partnership with Ikeja Electric to replace the faulty transformer was a major breakthrough,” he said with gratitude.

 “It proved again that when a community stands together, progress becomes possible.”

He highlighted other milestones: the production of the community calendar, recognition of outstanding contributors, and the historic installation of an official Baale—all pointing toward a community strengthening its identity and governance.

Looking ahead, he reassured residents that infrastructure remains a priority.

 “Once the rains subside, we are moving immediately to fix the potholes, clean up the drainage, strengthen security, and ensure every project is delivered transparently,” he pledged.

Strengthening Partnerships for Development

 

Temitayo Abudu

The General Secretary, Mr. Temitayo Abudu, echoed the message of collective progress but with an added emphasis on collaboration.

In a calm but determined tone, he explained the CDA’s strategic moves:

 “We are deepening our engagement with the LCDA, Lagos State Government, NGOs, and private sector partners.”

These collaborations, he said, will focus on youth empowerment, improved drainage networks, and the installation of solar-powered streetlights equipped with CCTV.

For him, trust-building remains the foundation of community growth.

 “Our goal is simple—build trust, build unity, and build a community where everyone participates willingly.”

Solar Streetlights: A New Dawn for Ajose Arilesola

One of the highlights of the event was the unveiling of a new solar-powered streetlight initiative—a project that promises safer nights and brighter streets.

Pastor Fọlọrunsho Olufemi Ojerinde, a respected voice in the community, called the project a welcome development.

“This is a brilliant and long-needed innovation. It will light up our roads and strengthen our security. Every resident should support it wholeheartedly,” he urged.

He also spoke passionately about environmental responsibility, warning that poor behaviours such as illegal shop extensions block drainage and worsen flooding.

 “If we want progress, we must maintain discipline. Let us stop shop extensions that hinder water flow.”

In a gesture that drew applause, he pledged personal financial support to the project.

Youth Wing: Raising a New Generation of Community Builders

                                                       Abudu A. Olalekan

Energy and optimism filled the hall as the Youth Leader, Mr. Abudu A. Olalekan, took the stage. He celebrated the growing involvement of young people—an encouraging trend for the community’s future.

“Our youths have shown that they are ready to lead, ready to serve, and ready to contribute,” he said proudly.

He noted that the youth wing expects more opportunities in 2026, especially in employment and governance participation. Their plans include entrepreneurship programmes, mentorship schemes, expanded digital engagement, and more environmental activities to keep the community clean and vibrant.

A Community That Stands as One

Representing tradition and cultural continuity, the Baale of Ajose Arilesola, Chief Taiwo Arilesola, expressed his satisfaction with the progress made so far.

“Ajose Arilesola is moving forward—peacefully, steadily, and boldly,” he said.

 “I am proud of our collective leadership and the rising visibility our community now enjoys.”

His words echoed the sentiment shared by many: the community is stronger when it moves in unity.

                Unveiling the 2026 Calendar & a Flagship Project

The ceremony reached its peak with the formal unveiling of the 2026 CDA Calendar—a colourful reflection of the community’s identity and progress.

But an even more significant announcement followed:

“LIGHT UP AJOSE ARILESOLA COMMUNITY” 

A flagship project aimed at transforming the community’s night-time  and safety using solar-powered streetlights and reinforced security features.

The initiative marks a bold step toward a more secure and modernized neighbourhood.

Deserving  members were also honoured with Awards

Moving Forward—Together

As the event drew to a close, one message stood tall above all others: the future of Ajose Arilesola will be shaped by collective responsibility.

With dedicated leaders, engaged youths, and committed residents, the CDA continues to strengthen its foundation as a community where every voice matters, every effort counts, and every contribution lights the way forward. ##