The coronation of Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye as the 21st Soun of Ogbomosoland commenced on Thursday with an N150 million empowerment program benefiting 102 beneficiaries.
The beneficiaries were selected from Ogo-Oliwa, Surulere, Ogbomoso North, and South local government areas.
Various items were presented to the beneficiaries, including sewing machines, industrial sewing machines, deep freezers, motorcycles, generators, and hair dryers.
The ceremony, held at the Soun of Ogbomoso palace, is part of a seven-day series of activities planned for the event.
Oba Ghandi in his address restated his commitment to the empowerment of the sons and daughters of Ogbomoso as well the development of the land.
“Since my confirmation by the government of Oyo State and subsequent installation as the SOUN of OGBOMOSO, I have emphasized consistently, that the comprehensive development of Ogbomosoland would by the grace of God, be central to my reign as the SOUN.
“I also emphasised that commencing immediately, lifting our people across all five Local Governments out of poverty lines will be pursued evenly, with vigor, determination, collaboration and synchronisation among those facilitating”
The monarch, therefore, assured the people that the nature of empowerment in tools, skills and opportunities would become diverse and applicable in the current global environment and labour market.
He also urged the people to imbibe the spirit of entrepreneurship that Ogbomoso is known for, adding that Ogbomoso Indigenes at home and in diaspora are entrepreneurs and this is what has kept them going.
The monarch urged recipients to make good use of the tools as warned them against dispossesion of the tools.
He threatened that anybody caught in the act would be prosecuted in accordance with the law.
“To the recipients of these business tools, I say congratulations! These are NOT gifts that should be taken for granted. Rather, they are tools that present great opportunity to unlock your potentials and contribute to the economic growth of our community.
“I urge you to embrace this gesture with enthusiasm, dedication, and a strong sense of responsibility and to recognize the tool given to you as coming from God. Remember, the success of your business ventures will not only benefit yourselves and your families, but also create jobs and opportunities for others within our city.
‘For your information, a monitoring mechanism has been set up in the palace and with the O-First Group to track the utilisation of these items.
You are also reminded that following the signed agreement, you are to guide against misuse and sale of these items as such would attract legal actions and jeopardise the interest of your guarantors.
Earlier in his address, the President, Ogbomoso First Community Iniative, Barr. Olusegun Adekunle said the programme is aimed at liberating the people from shackles of poverty.
He, therefore, urged recipients to make judicious use of the tools.
On the prevalence drugs and substance abuse among the youths, he expressed the readiness of the group to collaborate with the monarch.
“One of the critical challenges we face today is the growing prevalence of drug and substance abuse among our young population.
“This issue poses a significant threat to the future of our community. As we celebrate this coronation and embark on a new chapter under your leadership, Your Imperial Majesty, we pledge to work tirelessly with your administration and the entire community in addressing this issue.
Also, the Federal Controller of Works and Housing, Engr. Sola Gbolahan described the programme as a laudable one which is aimed at liberating the people in line with the vision of the Federal government.
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