Amb. Ogunsola expressed his delight to be officially invited to present a purposeful speech that reflects the bond existed between the Dover, USA and Obafemi Owode Local Government, Ogun State,Nigeria.
He said the ceremony is more than an award presentation, it is a celebration of shared values, leadership and partnership.
He explained that the Prestigious Leadership Award presented by Honourable Mayor Robin R Christensen and the Distinguished Service and Partnership Award received from Ms. Jody R Simundza, symbolizes admiration for his humility, passion for public service and commitment to people-centered governance, coupled with unwavering professionalism, efficiency and grace quality that gives structure to the friendship of the two communities with a meaningful impact of life.
While he expressed the deep interest of His Excellency, Prince Dapo Abiodun, CON, Governor of Ogun State on the level of humility and hospitality which propelled the visit with the blessings of the President, Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR to return here to receive not just an award but to strengthen a bridge of friendship between the two communities of both great Nations.
"For the purpose of history, our first visit here on April 22,2025 was a remarkable moments when you demonstrated your humility by inviting me to sit on your chair as the symbolic Mayor of Dover which reflected a powerful message that leadership is not about position but service and that friendship can transcend beyond geographical location, as the mutual respect is the true foundation of diplomacy", he stated.
He stressed that Obafemi Owode Local Government is a vibrant and progressive Local Government, strategically located between Lagos state, the commercial capital of Nigeria and Abeokuta, the state capital of Ogun State.
"Our local government is blessed with fertile farmlands, industrious people, and thriving blend of commerce and industries, broadly recognized across the 774 local governments of Nigeria with an Award by the Nigerian National Merit Award as the Best Local Government in Ogun State and Third Best in Nigeria through hard work, innovation and resilience of our people", he emphasized.
Amb. Ogunsola stated that in line with the Renewed hope agenda of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, which emphasized collaboration, partnership and bilateral trade relation, with the gracious arrangement of our delegation to tour a working farm in Dover, We are pleased to announce that Obafemi Owode Local Government has approved the allocation of Ten Hectares of Land for Agricultural Partnership and Collaborative Development with the City of Dover, Delaware. It will serve as the cornerstone for joint Agricultural Research, Mechanized Farming, and Youth agro-entrepreneurship programs, a partnership that will see our farmers, agronomists,and policy maker share knowledge and innovations that can transform local economies and ensure food production for both communities.
"Obafemi Owode Local Government stands as a hub of agriculture, trade, and industrial enterprise, producing not only food that sustained its people but also products that feed the economy of a state and nation at large", he concluded.
Earlier, Honourable Mayor, Robin R Christensen, Mayor of Dover, respectively welcomed Amb. Ogunsola, FCPA, stated that the legacy of service to his community and his people is so inspiring, as it's bridges friendship between the two great Nations, strengthen the bond and unity they share.
He appreciated the compliments accorded his office, as the Mayor of Dover, City council, and the support staff, Stressed that the success of the council is the result of a true team efforts - dedicated elected officials, hardworking staff and continued support of the citizens,as they strive together each day to build a City that welcomes all who wishes to call Dover their home.
While he acknowledged the efforts of some Nigerian, who serves in government, including Dr. Charles Adejoro, Special Assistant on International Relation for fostering this important connection.
He further assured of the full actualization of the Agricultural programs, with the proper funding by the City council and Delaware government, having appreciated the friendship, Partnership and the bilateral agreement between the two Nations.
Amongst the entourage of the chairman, includes, Hon. Adekunke Abdulateef, Chief whip and Councillor representing Owode ward, among other friends and associates.
