Stakeholders Meet in Aiyetoro to Discuss Renewable Energy and Local Development
The Ilaje Local Government (LG) of Ondo State held a significant Multi-Stakeholders Dialogue on Renewable Energy on Wednesday, April 10, 2025, at the Palace Hall in Aiyetoro. Although the Chairman of Ilaje LG, Hon. Maurice Oripenaye, was unable to attend due to a prior government assignment, he was ably represented by Hon. Emmanuel Ojagbaletiwon, the Councillor for Ugbo Ward 2.
During his keynote address, Hon. Ojagbaletiwon conveyed the Chairman’s message, emphasizing the importance of renewable energy as a vital economic and social opportunity for the community, the LG, the state, and the country as a whole. The Chairman reiterated that the transition to renewable energy would require a collective effort, open communication, and a shared vision among all stakeholders. He also highlighted the significance of the proposed Ugbo Nla/Aiyetoro Road, which is expected to enhance the movement of people and goods, thereby fostering economic growth in Aiyetoro.
The event was graced by several distinguished guests, including His Royal Majesty Oba Oluwambe Ojagbohunmi, who commended the Health of Mother Earth Foundation (HOMEF) for organizing the event. The monarch recognized the foundation’s support in bringing environmental awareness to coastal communities such as Aiyetoro and Awoye. His Majesty expressed gratitude for the meeting, which brought together traditional leaders and stakeholders to address the challenges faced by the Ilaje communities.
A key topic of discussion was the reclamation of Aiyetoro from the ongoing ocean encroachment. Hon. Ojagbaletiwon, in an interview after the meeting, expressed his commitment to ensuring government action on this pressing issue, emphasizing the need for urgent intervention to protect the community.
Comrade Femi Olorunlola, a senior staff member of the Ilaje LG, called for the thorough implementation of the resolutions from the meeting to improve Aiyetoro’s situation. Additionally, Comrade Ebini Joshua, representing the NGO Ilaje to the World, stressed the importance of giving back to the community and preserving the environment from both natural and human destruction.
The meeting also featured discussions on various forms of renewable energy, including solar, wind power, and biogas. Participants shared perspectives on the importance of community involvement in policy-making and the political aspects of energy transitions.
The event was expertly moderated by Comrade Thompson Akingboye, PRO of the Aiyetoro Youth Congress (AYC) and Personal Assistant to Oba Oluwambe Ojagbohunmi. At the end of the meeting, two discussion groups presented their resolutions, which are hoped to be implemented by the government for the betterment of the community.
The stakeholders’ meeting attracted a wide range of dignitaries, including Chief Ogunsemore Oyewunmi, Director from the Ministry of Agriculture, and leaders from the Ilaje Crafish Producers and Traders Association, as well as several traditional chiefs and representatives of civil society groups.
This event marks a crucial step toward improving the living conditions in coastal areas and fostering a more sustainable future for the people of Ilaje LG.
E-signed,
Hon. Sadare Taiwo,
Media Aide to the Executive Chairman, Ilaje LG
