Ilara-Mokin Day: Families, Clubs, and Professionals Unite in Generous Contributions to Community Development
In a splendid celebration of unity and purpose, the annual Ilara-Mokin Day brought together families, clubs, and professionals who contributed generously towards the development of their cherished community on Saturday, November 9, 2024, at the Ilara-Mokin Palace.
The event was a vibrant showcase of dedication, with community members pledging their resources, talents, and vision to ensure a prosperous future for the town.
Oba Abiodun Aderemi, the Alara of Ilara-Mokin, expressed heartfelt appreciation for the collective efforts, commending those who gave generously in support of community projects. “The strength of our community lies in the willingness of its sons and daughters to contribute,” Oba Aderemi remarked, underscoring the importance of communal self-reliance and resilience.
Chief Michael Ade-Ojo, Chairman of Elizade Group, echoed this sentiment. Known for his unwavering support for Ilara-Mokin, Chief Ade-Ojo encouraged the younger generation to embrace their heritage and build a brighter future for the community.
His remarks resonated as a call to all sons and daughters of Ilara-Mokin to continue their tenacious pursuit of progress.
The event’s success was bolstered by the organizing committee, led by Mr. Dare Awokoya, who thanked the numerous donors and emphasized the importance of self-help in achieving community development goals.
“Government alone cannot provide everything; it’s up to us to bridge the gaps,” he noted, highlighting a sentiment that many community members echoed.
Various clubs and associations demonstrated their commitment to Ilara-Mokin’s growth. Famoriti Adepoju Azeez, President of the Horizon Club, spoke about their ongoing contributions to education and other sectors.
Meanwhile, Surv. Henry Oloyede emphasized the need for community-led initiatives, sharing that local involvement would minimize dependence on government resources and ensure timely improvements in infrastructure and social services.
Surv. Joshua Afolabi, former President of the Mokin Constellation Club, reflected on his club’s impactful projects, including the construction of a multimillion-naira waterfall roundabout and the donation of educational materials to local schools.
“Giving back is a privilege,” he remarked, urging others to follow his example and continue supporting their hometown.
In a testament to Ilara-Mokin’s cultural pride, Comrade Temitope Alake, Convener of “My Culture and Heritage,” expressed his dedication to promoting the community’s rich traditions. He envisions a future where Ilara-Mokin’s heritage serves as a bridge between generations, fostering pride and continuity.
Adding to this spirit of progress, Akinyede Emmanuel praised the efforts to connect the old and new generations, noting the powerful impact of collaborative development.
Chief Olomofe of Ilara-Mokin, Adewale Arowomotin Emmanuel, also lauded the people’s commitment, proudly stating that 90 percent of community projects are driven by local contributions.
Health initiatives were likewise a focal point, as Dr. Henry Oladipupo Falaye, a prominent healthcare leader, pledged to establish a mother-and-child cottage hospital in Ilara-Mokin. His initiative promises to address vital healthcare needs, furthering the community’s self-sustained growth.
Youth leadership also played a role, with Stephen Alomaja, President of Temitayo Social Club, paying tribute to Oba Aderemi’s quality leadership. He praised the Oba’s ability to inspire a collective vision and sense of duty among the youth, fostering an enduring bond with the community.
In a closing act of unity, attendees gathered for group photographs, capturing the spirit of Ilara-Mokin Day 2024. The event closed with a renewed sense of purpose and a collective pledge to elevate Ilara-Mokin to greater heights through communal dedication and visionary leadership.