In an inspiring display of community leadership and generosity, HRM (Oba) Dr. Sulaimon Adeshina Raji-Ashade, Ilufemiloye Oniba-Ekun of Iba Kingdom, officially commissioned a multi-million naira bridge to connect residents of New Haven Estate, Igbehinadun, Iba, Lagos State.
The event, held on August 25th, witnessed a palpable sense of gratitude and excitement as the newly commissioned bridge will restore crucial access that had long been severed allowing residents to reach other parts of the area with ease.
The monarch’s commitment to his people extended beyond the bridge, as he donated two motorbikes to the community vigilantes. This thoughtful gesture aims to bolster emergency response capabilities and enhance security in the area. Oba (Dr) Sulaimon Adeshina’s reputation as a caring and forward-thinking leader was resoundingly echoed by the residents.
Speaking with Chief Patrick Okegbu, Chairman of the Estate, his heartfelt words resonated the transformation that has taken place: “Kabiyesi is God-sent, the love he has for his people and the warmth he has extended to us all are beyond comprehension. By this time last year, nobody passes here.”
Chief Okegbu recounted the swift and impactful changes brought about by the monarch’s initiatives, including the provision of a transformer.
Dr. Ademola Adiyatu, Chairman of the Board of Trustees (BOT), lauded Oniba’s unprecedented benevolence, stating, “I haven’t seen a Kabiyesi like this, he gives and keeps giving. In his tenure so far, the economy of our estate and infrastructure has really taken a boost.”
Engr. Chinedu Onuora, a resident, vividly remembered the challenges the community faced a year ago. “The word terrible is an understatement. This time last year, this place was not motorable and the water would sink you to your waist if you attempted to pass on foot. We cried to Kabiyesi and we began to see changes within two months.”
Elder Yakubu, a member of the BOT and Chairman of the Committee tasked with estate affairs, applauded Oniba’s all-encompassing approach. “Kabiyesi is not a tribalistic king. This estate is predominantly populated by Igbos, yet Kabiyesi has taken us as his home.”
He commended Oniba for providing a brand new transformer, grading roads, and constructing a bridge worth several millions of naira for the benefit of the community.
Hon. Tolani Sule, a prominent APC Chieftain and Community Leader, hailed Oniba’s visionary leadership. “Oniba decided to go head-on and in the space of 12 months, we are here to commission a bridge. He has given new life to a big community of about six zones, provided succor, economic, social support to the people.”
“This bridge will make it easy to access this estate. It has direct impact on many aspects of the life of the people, including their wards whose school busses need this bridge to access them.”
Hon. Tolani Sule expressed gratitude for Oniba’s dedication to the community’s development and called upon others to contribute to their communities.
Speaking on what inspired the initiatives, Oba (Dr) Sulaimon Adeshina emphasized the importance of community involvement and collaboration in governance.
“The government cannot do it all alone, we must also do our bit for the communities we are ruling,” he affirmed.
The monarch expressed gratitude to the Sanwo-Olu-led Lagos State Government, community members, and supporters for making the project a success.
The inauguration of the bridge symbolized not only enhanced connectivity but also the unity and resilience of the New Haven Estate community. With the addition of motorbikes to bolster security efforts, Oniba’s commitment to welfare and holistic development was on full display. As the estate embarks on a new chapter of progress and unity, Oniba’s legacy as a compassionate and visionary leader continues to shine brightly.