The Grand Strategic Retreat of the Offa Community, convened by the Olofa of Offa, Oba Mufutau Gbadamosi Ajagungbade Esuwoye II, opened on Thursday with a strong call for unity, conflict resolution, and inclusive development.
The two-day retreat, themed “Mobilising Popular Participation for the Rapid Development of Offa”, brought together eminent sons and daughters of Offa, both at home and abroad.
Speakers and panelists emphasized that stronger cohesion, the resolution of internal disputes, and aligning Offa’s economic aspirations with global standards are crucial to the town’s future.
In his opening remarks, the Olofa of Offa clarified that the gathering was not a political forum but a development-focused meeting, stressing that while no community is perfectly united, “the love of the community and the love of one another are non-negotiable.”
The Chairman of the Offa Elders Forum, Chief Yunusa Folorunso Oyeyemi, urged that the community should rally around one common front, saying “the only party we must all belong to is the Party of Offa.”
Another elder, Chief Banji Orilonise, noted that Offa deserves a place among the highest-ranking LGAs in the country.
Delivering his goodwill message, Senator Lola Ashiru, the Senate Deputy Majority Leader, praised Offa’s reputation for human capital but expressed concern that unity and love in the community have waned. On the prevailing security challenges in Kwara State, he advised the gathering to develop a workable action plan.
The Asiwaju of Offa, Alhaji Tajudeen Owoyemi, encouraged Offa to adopt the “Ijebu model” of fostering unity in diversity.
Adding to this, Professor Sidikat Nike Ijaiya described unity as “the currency of development”, while High Chief Joseph Ojomu warned that persistent family and land disputes continue to undermine Offa’s growth.
The retreat continues today with discussions on two key topics:
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Speedy Realisation of Offa’s Development Aspirations While Being ESG Compliant
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Promoting Our Cultural Heritage and Values
Speakers for these sessions include Dr. Sarah Alade, OON; Ms. Muibat Ijaiya; Chief Dr. Bashiru Adepoju, the Agba-Akin of Offa; and Chief Khadijat Adebiyi.
Other discussants are Dr. Remi Oni, Prof. Musbau Akanji, Ms. Kemi Adesoye, Chief Mrs. Wosilat Atinuke Macarthy (Yeye Bobaselu of Offa), among several others.
