In a significant step towards enhancing grassroots infrastructure, Dr Debo Akande on Wednesday commissioned solar powered streetlights donated to Oshofi Compound, Ward 1, Ibadan South-West Local Government Area of Ibadan.
The commissioning ceremony, held at Oja-Iba, drew the presence of key stakeholders, community leaders, and residents, all of whom lauded the initiative as a timely intervention aimed at improving security and stimulating socio economic activities within the area.

In his welcome address, the Councillor representing Ward 1 expressed profound appreciation to Dr Akande for the laudable gesture, noting that the project reflects a strong commitment to community development and responsive leadership at the grassroots.

Also speaking, Chief Nureni Akanbi, Arole Ile Iba, commended Dr Akande for his consistent engagement with the people, describing the intervention as both impactful and commendable. He further affirmed the readiness of the people of Ibadan South West to support Dr Akande’s future aspirations, citing his track record of service and dedication. Chief Akanbi also expressed appreciation to the Executive Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, for his ongoing developmental efforts across the state.
In his keynote remarks, Dr Akande expressed gratitude to the community for the warm reception accorded him, emphasizing that the solar streetlight project marks the commencement of a broader developmental initiative. He explained that Ward 1 was deliberately selected as the pilot phase, with assurances that similar projects would be replicated across all wards in Ibadan South-West.
Highlighting the critical role of education in societal advancement, Dr Akande described it as the bedrock of sustainable success. He further advocated for vocational training to be made compulsory, stressing that practical skills acquisition is essential in empowering young people, promoting self-reliance, and reducing unemployment. He disclosed that, subject to prevailing conditions, plans are underway to facilitate the establishment of a school within the community to further expand access to quality education.

Addressing market men and women present at the event, Dr Akande identified limited access to finance as a major impediment to small-scale business growth. Drawing from his experience in public service, he revealed that OYSADA an agency under his leadership recently facilitated the disbursement of ₦1.5 billion to 1,000 Youth beneficiaries to support their agricultural enterprises. He further assured that efforts would be made, in collaboration with microfinance institutions, to provide accessible soft loans at minimal interest rates to traders, particularly market women.

Dr Akande also used the occasion to commend the Executive Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, for his visionary leadership and sustained developmental strides across the state. He urged residents to continue supporting the administration in order to consolidate on the gains achieved.

Reiterating his commitment to service, Dr Akande affirmed that his vision remains firmly rooted in giving back to society and improving the overall wellbeing of the people.

The event was attended by representatives of the Ibadan South-West Local Government Chairman, including the Chief of Staff, councillors, party leaders, religious leaders, traditional chiefs, market stakeholders, and a cross-section of residents, underscoring the broad-based support for the initiative.