By Samuel Ajiboye
Ado Ekiti
The ancient town of Are Ekiti was aglow with renewed optimism on Monday as a prominent community leader and business tycoon, Aare Idowu Akomolede, donated about 70 stands of solar powered street lights to the town, covering all quarters and effectively illuminating the entire community.
As the lights now shine across Are Ekiti each night, residents said the town is not only brighter but also breathing hopeful atmosphere stressing that the project had simply demonstrated a community driven development and the power of purposeful leadership rooted in service engendered by the Youths of the town.
A cross section of residents and youth of the town who described the project as unprecedented in scale and impact, noted that it is already reshaping the night time outlook of the town, making the community to take a significant step toward modern community living, enhanced security and expanded social and economic activities after dusk.
They emphasized that the project has transformed once dark streets into safe and lively corridors, opening up new possibilities for commerce, movement and social interaction and security
The intervention cuts across every nook and cranny of the town, from Oke Aafin, to Inisa, Ileko, Ilawemo, Ayegunle, Idemorun, Odo-Ode, and other quarters, ensuring that no quarter is left behind. From major roads to inner streets, the solar lights now stand as visible symbols of collective progress and deliberate investment in the wellbeing of the people.
The commissioning ceremony of the project, solely sponsored by the people of Are Ekiti under the auspices of the Are Ekiti Youths, was also described as a rare show of grassroots commitment to development. Leading the youth body to the venue of the event, the Youth President, Mr Olumide Anisulowo who, pointed the project as a clear demonstration of what is possible when visionary leadership meets community support explained that the Youth Body had approached Aare Akomolede on the condition of the town particularly in the night, as well as the need for dedication to the development of the town.
According to him, Aare Akomolede known for his generosity and consistency in contributing to the development of the town from his personal resources, did not hesitate but began moves on how to bring life into the community through street lights. Anisulowo who therefore commended Aare Idowu Akomolede reaffirmed the commitment of the youth body to engaging individuals and groups who genuinely have the interest of Are Ekiti at heart. He said such collaborations are essential for facilitating sustainable development and improving the standard of living of residents.
He noted that beyond illumination, the street light project represents hope, safety and economic revival. By lighting up the town, he said, new life has been injected into local businesses, social gatherings and community interactions that were previously limited by darkness.
In his words:
“Aare Idowu Akomolede is widely known for his extensive investments within Are Ekiti and beyond. His business interests span various sectors including oil and gas as well as hospitality, and he has consistently leveraged his success to support initiatives that uplift his hometown. He is one of the of the prominent indigenes of this town whom community members describe as a quiet philanthropist whose interventions often speak louder than words and for many, this solar street lights project is another chapter in his long standing commitment to community development.” He said.
The commissioning of the project drew a large gathering presided over by the traditional ruler Oba Boluwade Adebiyi, chiefs, community leaders, youths and residents. In his address, the monarch lauded Aare Akomolafe for setting a commendable example of selfless service and community responsibility. He described the project as a practical demonstration of love for one’s roots and concern for the collective good.
Oba Adebiyi who thanked the sons and daughters of the town also recognized the efforts of Dr Tunji Olowolafe,and called on other privileged individuals from the town to emulate the gesture. He stressed that sustainable development requires collective sacrifice and intentional giving back.
The monarch emphasized that when individuals of means invest in their communities, they not only improve infrastructure but also strengthen social bonds and inspire future generations to value service and responsibility. Oba Adebiyi thanked the Youth Leadership for their relentlessness and resilience in making the community livable and developed, urging the people of the town to present a formidable and united front in building a greater town, stressing that development thrives best in an atmosphere of unity, peace and mutual respect. He particularly advised the indigenes of the town to live purposeful lives and set good examples for those coming behind them. According to him, character, discipline and commitment to community values remain essential pillars for lasting progress.
Several members of the community took turns to speak on the background and significance of the street light project. Among them were Mr Odunayo Ehinafe, Mr Ogundipe Lawrence, Mrs Adamolekun Abosede and Chief Olugbenga Oluleye, the Odofin of Are Ekiti.
They collectively traced the idea of the project to growing concerns about security and limited night time activities in the town. According to them, darkness had long posed challenges to movement, commerce and social life, expressing excitement over the successful completion of the project. They noted that it had exceeded expectations in both coverage and quality. They commended the collective efforts of sons and daughters of Are Ekiti who have continued to contribute, in different ways, to the growth and development of the town, while encouraging others, both at home and in the diaspora, to see development as a shared responsibility.
The atmosphere at the event was festive, with residents expressing gratitude and pride in the collective achievement as many said the project has already boosted their confidence in the town’s future.
Also, High Chief Adebayo expressed deep appreciation to Aare Akomolede for making the project a reality and thanked the youth body and the entire community for their support noting that the street light project would remain a lasting legacy, reminding future generations of what unity, vision and generosity can achieve.