…Deji says era of division is over
…Youth Minister calls for sacrifices to drive development

By Dayo Johnson, Akure

Traditional rulers, political leaders and other stakeholders from Akure-speaking communities have launched a renewed push for regional integration and sustainable development with a summit aimed at fostering unity and economic growth in Ondo State.

The three-day summit, themed “Building a Smart, Integrated and Prosperous Development Corridor,” brought together delegates from more than 20 Akure-speaking communities to develop a common development agenda for the area.

The initiative is expected to harmonise development plans across Akure South, Akure North and Ifedore Local Government Areas, with the goal of positioning the corridor as a smart and integrated economic zone.

Addressing participants, the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Aladelusi, said the large turnout had reinforced his confidence in the future of the Akure-speaking communities.

The monarch dismissed reports of disunity, saying efforts were already underway to reconcile differences, strengthen partnerships and build a more peaceful and united front.

He also renewed his call for the establishment of a central coordinating body for Akure-speaking communities, explaining that such a structure would complement, rather than replace, existing associations by serving as an umbrella platform to promote collective interests.

“Our unity is no longer negotiable. This gathering shows we are close to realising the dream of one people with one language, culture and tradition,” Oba Aladelusi said.

He added, “Disagreements will come, but we must learn to agree to disagree as brothers.”

Chairman of the Planning Committee, Air Commodore Adewale Ogunmodede (Rtd.), said sustainable development could only be achieved through collaboration among all stakeholders.

“Development is not the responsibility of one town or one leader. It requires the collective efforts of everyone,” he said.

He urged participants to contribute practical ideas and build partnerships capable of delivering tangible results.

“Speeches alone will not employ our youths. We need actionable strategies. That is why this summit exists—to examine the key pillars that will reshape our future,” Ogunmodede added.

Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, described the summit as timely, saying it would help reposition Akure and project a united identity.

“We are working towards a common platform where all our traditional rulers, chiefs and stakeholders can speak with one voice.

“Sacrifice is required, and we are ready to make it so that our people can grow with a stronger and more united voice,” he said.

Delegates from more than 20 communities, including Oba-Ile, Ala, Iju, Ita-Ogbolu, Ogbese, Ilu-Abo, Igoba, Ilado, Imafon, Osi and Isinigbo, participated in the summit.