The ancient town of Are Ekiti was aglow with renewed optimism on Monday following the donation of about 70 solar-powered streetlights by a prominent community leader and businessman, Idowu Akomolede.
The solar streetlights, which now illuminate all quarters of the town, have effectively transformed the community’s night-time outlook, improving security, social life, and economic activities after dusk.
Residents described the intervention as unprecedented in scale and impact, noting that the project has turned previously dark streets into safe and lively corridors, opening new opportunities for commerce, movement, and social interaction.
The project covers every part of the town, including Oke Aafin, Inisa, Ileko, Ilawemo, Ayegunle, Idemorun, Odo-Ode, and other neighbourhoods, ensuring that no area was left out. From major roads to inner streets, the solar lights now stand as visible symbols of community-driven development and collective progress.
The commissioning ceremony, sponsored entirely by the people of Are Ekiti under the auspices of the Are Ekiti Youths, was widely described as a rare demonstration of grassroots commitment to sustainable development.
Speaking at the event, the Youth President, Mr. Olumide Anisulowo, said the project reflected what could be achieved when visionary leadership aligns with community support. He explained that the youth body had approached Aare Akomolede to intervene in the town’s long-standing challenge of darkness and insecurity at night.
According to him, Akomolede, who is widely known for his consistent contributions to the development of Are Ekiti, immediately took steps to bring the project to fruition.
Anisulowo commended Akomolede’s generosity and reaffirmed the youth body’s commitment to engaging individuals and groups genuinely interested in the town’s progress, stressing that such partnerships are essential for sustainable development and improved living standards.
He noted that beyond illumination, the streetlight project symbolises hope, safety, and economic revival, as it has reinvigorated local businesses, social gatherings, and community interactions previously limited by darkness.
The commissioning attracted a large gathering of residents, traditional chiefs, and community leaders, led by the town’s monarch, Oba Boluwade Adebiyi. In his address, the monarch praised Aare Akomolede for setting a commendable example of selfless service and community responsibility.
Oba Adebiyi described the project as a practical demonstration of love for one’s roots and concern for collective wellbeing. He also commended the efforts of sons and daughters of the town, including Dr. Tunji Olowolafe, and urged other privileged indigenes to emulate the gesture.
According to the monarch, sustainable development requires collective sacrifice and intentional giving back, noting that when individuals of means invest in their communities, they not only improve infrastructure but also strengthen social bonds and inspire future generations.
Several community members, including Mr. Odunayo Ehinafe, Mr. Ogundipe Lawrence, Mrs. Adamolekun Abosede, and Chief Olugbenga Oluleye, the Odofin of Are Ekiti, also spoke on the significance of the project. They traced its origin to growing concerns about security and limited night-time activities and expressed satisfaction with its coverage and quality.
They commended the collective efforts of indigenes at home and in the diaspora, urging others to see community development as a shared responsibility.
The event ended on a festive note, with residents expressing gratitude and pride in the project, which many described as a lasting legacy of unity, vision, and generosity.
0 Comments