Elders in Ijesaland have pledged full support for the Ijesaland Development Fund (IDF), an initiative by Asiwaju Yinka Fasuyi, the Asiwaju of Ijesaland and President/CEO of Ibadan Business School.
The initiative aims to raise one billion naira annually to drive sustainable development in the region.
At the official presentation of the IDF held at the Oba Adekunle Aromolaran Civic Centre, Ereja Square, Ilesa, Asiwaju Fasuyi outlined the project’s objective of ensuring that all Ijesa people aged 21 and above contribute to the fund.
Speaking on the importance of the initiative, Asiwaju Fasuyi highlighted that it was designed to prevent donation fatigue, particularly among the patriots who funded major projects like the new Owa’s Palace and the Ijesaland Geriatric Centre.
“This initiative ensures inclusivity by allowing every Ijesa son and daughter to contribute and have their names recorded in the IDF account book. Contributors’ names will also be published online and made available in printed form annually,” he explained.
The Asiwaju revealed that 2025 would be dedicated to widespread sensitization of stakeholders, including traditional rulers, community leaders, professional and vocational groups, religious organizations, political bodies, market associations, and Ijesa diasporan groups.
He added that a website, a functional secretariat, and other operational logistics would be established in preparation for full implementation in 2026.
A 10-tier payment structure has been introduced, allowing contributions as low as N1,000 annually, with no upper limit.
The tiers include:Level 1: N1,000 x 150,000 contributors = N50,000,000
Level 2: N2,500 x 50,000 contributors = N125,000,000
Level 3: N5,000 x 20,000 contributors = N100,000,000
Level 4: N10,000 x 10,000 contributors = N100,000,000
Level 5: N25,000 x 4,000 contributors = N100,000,000
Level 6: N50,000 x 2,000 contributors = N100,000,000
Level 7: N100,000 x 1,000 contributors = N100,000,000
Level 8: N250,000 x 300 contributors = N75,000,000
Level 9: N500,000 x 150 contributors = N75,000,000
Level 10: N1,000,000 x 75 contributors = N75,000,000
To ensure equitable development, contributors will indicate the local government area in Ijesaland where they want their donations credited, allowing funds to support specific community-driven projects.
The Yeyerise of Ilesa, Chief Mrs. Hannah Ojo, described the IDF as a transformative initiative that would reduce the burden on the few individuals who have spearheaded development projects in the past.
She called on all Ijesa people to unite and embrace the fund as a tool for collective progress.
Also Speaking, The Ogboni of Ilesa High Chief Saka Fapohunda urged citizens to respond to this clarion call, emphasizing the importance of elevating Ijesaland to meet the lofty aspirations of its forebears.
The proposal received unanimous approval from attendees, who praised the Ijesaland Community Development Assembly and Asiwaju Yinka Fasuyi for their innovative leadership and dedication to the growth of our community
Accompanying Asiwaju Fasuyi at the event were notable dignitaries, including Chief Afolabi Igbaroola, Alagba Wale Idowu, Erelu Olafadehan, and Mr. Olatunbosun among others
Images: Oladimeji Lasore/ Story; Isaac HAASTRUP
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