OSAWA MARKS FOUR YEARS, EXTENDS EXECUTIVE TENURE AMID RECORD OF DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVES IN ONDO SOUTH

 OSAWA MARKS FOUR YEARS, EXTENDS EXECUTIVE TENURE AMID RECORD OF DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVES IN ONDO SOUTH

The Ondo South Advancement & Welfare Consultative Association (OSAWA) has expressed deep appreciation to the people of Ondo South Senatorial District for their continued trust and support as the association marks four years since its current leadership assumed office.

In a statement issued on March 7, 2026, the President of OSAWA, Ade-Aworetan Oluwajuwon Adejare, reflected on the association’s journey since the Executive Council was inaugurated on March 7, 2022, following a successful election.

Adejare noted that the association remains committed to its core vision, mission, and objectives, which continue to guide its activities and development efforts across the senatorial district. He emphasized that the leadership has remained focused on delivering on its mandate while operating strictly within the provisions of the association’s constitution.

The OSAWA president also acknowledged the contributions of the Advisory Council, which includes royal fathers, grand patrons, patrons, and life members, for their guidance and strategic support. He further commended the Board of Trustees and the general membership of the association for their cooperation and sustained commitment to the organization’s goals.

According to him, unity within the Executive Council has played a critical role in enabling the association to achieve notable progress over the past four years.

The statement also confirmed that the Congress of the association—the highest decision-making body—has approved an extension of the tenure of the current Executive Council by 31 months. The decision was reached during a sitting held on February 14, 2026.

The Congress explained that the extension became necessary after individuals who had initially indicated interest in contesting for executive positions did not complete the electoral process in line with the association’s guidelines, particularly the requirement to purchase expression of interest and nomination forms within the stipulated period.

While acknowledging the concerns expressed by some members, the Congress concluded that continuity in leadership would help sustain ongoing programmes and ensure the successful completion of several projects currently underway.

Adejare said the Executive Council has accepted the decision in good faith and reaffirmed its commitment to serving the association and the people of Ondo South, noting that members of the council serve on a voluntary basis without salaries or stipends.

“Our service is driven by a passion for community development, humanitarian service, and the overall progress of Ondo South Senatorial District,” he said.

The association highlighted several milestones achieved during the four-year period. These include the creation of a comprehensive membership database, the acquisition and furnishing of a spacious secretariat building in Okitipupa, and the establishment of liaison offices across the six local government areas in the district.

OSAWA also reported facilitating empowerment programmes and financial support initiatives designed to help beneficiaries establish small businesses. In addition, academic scholarships were awarded to selected individuals to support educational advancement within the district.

According to the association, its leadership also helped facilitate employment opportunities for indigenes, including 54 positions in government establishments and 27 placements in the private sector through collaborations and connections with key stakeholders.

The organization further disclosed that it secured a permanent site in Okitipupa for the construction of a purpose-built secretariat complex, donated by one of its life members. Preparations are underway for the groundbreaking ceremony at the site.

Other initiatives cited include the inauguration of ward representatives across all 66 wards in the senatorial district, advocacy for accelerated development in the region, and support for federal lawmakers representing the district in both the Senate and the House of Representatives.

The association also stated that it played a role in ongoing efforts to restore electricity supply to several communities that had experienced prolonged outages, noting that work is continuing to ensure that remaining affected communities are reconnected.

OSAWA announced plans to publish a comprehensive report of its activities and achievements in the fourth edition of the Ondo South Magazine Series. The publication will coincide with the upcoming 4th Ondo South Security, Economic and Leadership Summit scheduled for early next year.

The summit will also mark the 10th anniversary of the association and is expected to feature empowerment programmes and other development initiatives aimed at improving the welfare of residents across the senatorial district.

The leadership concluded by calling on members, stakeholders, and community leaders to continue supporting the association’s programmes and to maintain unity in pursuit of sustainable development for Ondo South.