Being the goodwill message delivered at the official opening of the Lagos Office of Odu’a Investments Limited, on 31st July, 2024, by Dr. Seye Oyeleye, Director-General, Development Agenda for Western Nigeria.
PROTOCOL
I feel privileged to deliver this goodwill message as we celebrate a momentous occasion – the opening of Odu’a Investment Company Limited’s new office here in Lagos State.
OICL holds a unique place in the heart of every Yoruba person. Therefore we are not simply witnessing the expansion of a business entity, but the continuation of a grand vision that has shaped the collective social, political, and economic aspirations of Southwest Nigeria.
Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s social democratic philosophy sought to harness the power of capitalism for the greater good of all. Odu’a Investments was, and remains, a crucial instrument in this noble pursuit. It stands as a beacon of hope, demonstrating that economic prosperity and social welfare can, indeed, go hand in hand.
OICL carries the weighty responsibility of living up to this lofty ideal set by its founding fathers. We, the Yoruba people, look to this organisation with the same eyes that gazed upon the transformative initiatives of the Awolowo era. We expect nothing less than audacious thinking and ambitious projects that will reshape the landscape of Yorubaland and beyond.
As a close observer and participant in the recent strides made by Odu’a Investments, I am filled with optimism that the organisation is steadily evolving into a global conglomerate, inching closer to its Big, Hairy, Audacious Goal. The transformation has been remarkable under the visionary guidance of Otunba Abimbola Ashiru, the chairman of the Board of Directors, the astute leadership of the immediate past GMD, Mr Adewale Raji, and now the new GMD, Mr Abdulrahman Yinusa.
This new office in Lagos, the economic powerhouse of West Africa is therefore not just a geographical expansion. It is a launchpad for greater achievements and a statement of intent that echoes the ambitions of our forebears.
To the staff of Odu’a Investments, I say this: You are not merely employees of a profit-seeking enterprise. You are the custodians of a sacred trust. Every day you walk into this office, remember that you carry with you the hopes and aspirations of millions of people. Your actions and decisions should reflect not only the best interests of the company and its shareholders but also the welfare of every man, woman, and child in Southwest Nigeria.
I ask you to draw inspiration from other success stories around the world. Just as Temasek has become a symbol of prosperity for Singapore, we envision Odu’a Investments playing an even more transformative role in our region. We dream of a future where the proceeds from this organisation fund initiatives that guarantee ‘life more abundant’ for all our people.
Allow me to extend my heartfelt congratulations to Otunba Ashiru and his esteemed colleagues on the Board of OICL. I also wish to commend the new GMD, Mr Abdulrahman Yinusa, who I like to refer to as the man of destiny, on this remarkable achievement. While some may not yet fully grasp the significance of this moment, we who understand the vision recognise it as a crucial stepping stone for OICL’s global ambitions.
I stand before you today with unwavering conviction that these two visionary leaders will soon become beloved figures among the Yoruba people. Their foresight and dedication to Odu’a Investments’ mission will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on our collective future. Let us unite in prayer, asking for divine guidance and support as they steer this great institution towards its destined greatness.
On behalf of the people of Southwest Nigeria, I pray that this new office serves as a crucible for innovative ideas and bold strategies that will propel us towards our shared goals. We place our faith and trust in you. We believe in your vision, and we stand ready to support you every step of the way.
Together, let us rekindle the flame of progress that Chief Awolowo lit decades ago and achieve greatness beyond our wildest dreams.
Thank you.