Residents of Igbayiyemi Community in Abeokuta North Local Government Area of Ogun State have celebrated their first Community Development Association anniversary, highlighting major strides in land recovery, security, and basic infrastructure within one year.
The event, held on May 2, 2026, at Soyoye, along the Sokoto-Badagry Expressway in Adio-Ajegunle, attracted traditional leaders, government officials, and health professionals, who commended the community’s rapid development under its current leadership.
Chairman of the Igbayiyemi CDA, Mr. Lawal Kehinde Taoheed, described the anniversary as a significant milestone, attributing the achievements recorded to collective effort and unity among residents.
“This anniversary is a reflection of what we can achieve when we work together. I appreciate the support of all residents and the encouragement from my family, especially my wife,” he said.
Lawal disclosed that the association successfully reclaimed about 33 plots of land previously encroached upon by a neighbouring community, describing the move as a major breakthrough in safeguarding communal assets.
He added that the CDA had also strengthened security through the construction of a community gate, while improving night-time safety with the installation of solar-powered streetlights.
According to him, the association remains committed to initiating projects that will enhance the welfare and security of residents.
Among dignitaries at the event were the Baale of Adio-Ajegunle Soyoye Township, Chief Rasheed Abiola Adio, who served as the Royal Father of the Day; the Grand Patron of Soyoye General Community Development Council, Alhaji Murithador Akanji Atunrase; Director in the Office of the Auditor-General for Local Governments, Mrs. Victoria Olayemi Osilaja; and a senior officer of the Nigeria Immigration Service, Mr. Babatunde Adedeji Sangolana.
A medical team from the Federal Medical Centre, Idi-Aba, Abeokuta, led by Mrs. Bolanle Balikis Majekodunmi, also provided free health screenings for residents as part of the anniversary activities.
In separate interviews with PLATFORM TIMES, residents praised the CDA leadership for fostering unity and driving development.
Osilaja described the celebration as historic, noting that it marked the first organised community-wide event of its kind in the area. She urged residents to remain united and prioritise environmental cleanliness to prevent disease outbreaks.
“We must avoid actions that divide us and ensure our surroundings are clean. Good hygiene begins at home and within our community,” she said.
Majekodunmi, on her part, emphasised the importance of healthy living, urging residents to adopt better dietary habits, avoid harmful substances, and embrace regular medical check-ups.
“Routine health checks at least twice a year can help detect illnesses early. We must also eat balanced diets, drink enough water, and exercise regularly,” she advised.
The celebration featured cultural displays and health awareness campaigns, reinforcing the community’s commitment to sustainable development and improved quality of life.
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