As Ijebuland charts a new course toward economic rejuvenation, Otunba Bimbo Ashiru, Group Chairman of Odu’a Investment Company, has called for stronger collaboration among Ijebu-centric associations and local institutions to drive coordinated development and unlock the region’s vast potential.
Otunba Ashiru made this passionate call on Tuesday, May 3, 2025, while delivering the keynote address at the Ijebu Boys Association 2025 Convention, which also featured the Inaugural Ijebu Economic Forum and Trade Fiesta, held at the historic Itoro Main Hall, Ijebu-Ode.
The event, themed “Health to Wealth: Catalysts to Economic Development of Ijebuland,” drew dignitaries including sons and daughters of Ijebu origin, policymakers, business leaders, and development professionals.
In his address, Otunba Ashiru praised the Ijebu Boys Association for their unwavering commitment to community upliftment, noting that the Ijebus possess a strong entrepreneurial heritage. However, he lamented the decline of local industries, attributing it to national economic pressures and unchecked importation.
“Ijebu people are an entrepreneurial people,” he declared. “But cheaper imports and a challenging economic climate have weakened our industries. It’s time we looked inward and reignited our strengths.”
Laying out a clear and actionable roadmap, Otunba Ashiru identified five priority sectors for development: Manufacturing, Agriculture and Processing, MSMEs, ICT, and Construction. He emphasized the strategic importance of gas infrastructure expansion, urging Ijebuland not to be sidelined as pipelines reach nearby cities like Abeokuta and Ibadan.
He proposed the creation of an Ijebu Agricultural Development Program, focused on structured land use, crop diversification, and agro-processing in line with the region’s natural advantages.
Turning to small businesses, he noted: “No society can improve well-being without creating opportunities for MSMEs to thrive.” He advocated for mentorship, accessible financing, and policy frameworks to empower grassroots entrepreneurs.
A major highlight of his speech was a strong call for collaboration between local associations such as the Ijebu Development Agenda (IDA) and the Ijebu Poverty Alleviation Initiative, as well as involvement from Local Government authorities. He emphasized that working in silos undermines collective impact, and urged stakeholders to align their resources and vision.
Furthermore, he encouraged the Ijebu diaspora to take an active role in the region’s development through investment and knowledge-sharing platforms.
Following his keynote, Otunba Ashiru formally opened the Ijebu Trade Fiesta, a showcase of local artisans, SMEs, and young innovators. He toured the exhibition stands, engaging with participants and encouraging them to remain resilient in the face of economic headwinds.
The event was hailed as a visionary gathering, signaling a new era of strategic development for Ijebuland, driven by unity, innovation, and a return to indigenous strengths.
