Kwara South Leaders and Stakeholders recently gathered for a transformative retreat with a primary objective to strategize and collaborate on initiatives aimed at fostering progress and economic development in Kwara South. The event was hosted by the Founder of Thomas Adewumi University (Dr. J.B.O Adewumi) at the University Auditorium, and was graced by the presence of His Excellency, the Deputy Governor of Kwara State, Eld. Kayode Alabi who also doubled as the representative of His Excellency, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, the Governor of Kwara State, also in attendance were Traditional Rulers, House of Assembly Representatives, and other prominent dignitaries in Kwara South as a whole.
The opening speech was delivered by the Founder of TAU/Convener of the KSDI, Dr. J.B.O Adewumi, who stated the purpose of the retreat, the objectives and goals of the initiative forum also the challenges and possible solutions to help develop Kwara South in extension Kwara State. This retreat signifies a pivotal moment for Kwara South. “It provides us with an opportunity to pool our resources, expertise, and ideas towards a common purpose – the progress and development of our region. By working together, we can overcome challenges and seize opportunities to create a brighter future for all." He added
His Excellency, the Deputy Governor of Kwara State, responded to the convener’s speech passionately stating that “everyone has to come together work together collectively as one strong voice in other to achieve our desire”.
Prof. Elegbede, A professor of Public Health, Thomas Adewumi University delivered a lecture titled” Public/Private involvement in driving an economic revolution of Kwara South harnessing its potential to create Jobs and combat poverty. He outlined the potential of Kwara State and the roles Government officials and every individual is to play for the betterment of Kwara South. In his lecture he highlighted tourist attractions and mineral resources in Kwara South that are underdeveloped, not properly maintained and underutilized, saying “this as a wakeup call to Kwara South stakeholders holding positions in the National Assembly, Traditional rulers, and Executive government”.
Moving forward, the Vice-Chancellor of Thomas Adewumi University (Prof. Francisca Oladipo) delivered a speech on how Thomas Adewumi University is improving the economic development of Irepodun and by extension, kwara South, She stated that the Mission, Vision, and strategic plan of the institution contributes to the development of Kwara South and in extension to Nigeria as whole. “TAU is a leading university in STEM-i developing itself as a self-sustaining University” She added.
The participants sought to create a comprehensive roadmap for future growth and progress. The retreat also emphasized the importance of inclusivity and community engagement. By the end of the retreat, key challenges, opportunities and possible resolutions were discussed. The success of the retreat has laid a strong foundation for the future development initiatives in Kwara South.
