The Iyalode of Owu Ogbe, Chief Mrs Olufunlayo Adeshina, has donated solar-powered street lights to the Owu -Ogbe community in Abeokuta North Local Government Area of Ogun State, as part of efforts to improve security and provide adequate lighting in the community.
The donation held on Saturday attracted members of the community, traditional leaders and residents, was described as a significant intervention that would illuminate major parts of Owu Ogbe, particularly during important community events.
Speaking during the presentation, Chief Mrs Adeshina, who is the wife of a leader in the local government, Hon. Adekunle Adeshina, said the initiative was motivated by the need to address the persistent darkness experienced in the area.
She said, “This place is always dark, especially when we are celebrating Owu Day. That is why I decided to provide these solar lights to illuminate the community.”
The Iyalode urged residents to take ownership of the facilities and ensure that they were properly maintained to serve the community for a long time.
“We are the owners of this solar light, so let us monitor it and make sure it does not get spoilt. We want everywhere to be bright at night,” she said.
Also speaking, the Alakoso of Owu Ogbe, Surveyor Olajide Fashina , appreciated the Iyalode for the gesture, describing the donation as evidence that development was gradually taking root in the community.
Fashina said the solar street lights would benefit residents and visitors, adding that there were also plans to equip children in the community with vocational skills. “Gradually, development is coming to Owu Ogbe, and this will benefit everyone,” he said.
He added that arrangements were being considered to train children and young people in various vocational skills, including fashion designing, Adire production and other forms of entrepreneurship, as part of efforts to empower the younger generation.
Also speaking, a chief in Owu, Baba Osunrinde, commended Iyalode for her contribution to the development of the community, urging other well-meaning individuals to emulate her gesture.
Residents who spoke at the event expressed excitement over the solar street lights, saying the initiative would improve visibility, security and movement within Owu -Ogbe at night.
