On Friday, March 21, 2025, the Osapa London Youth Organization (OLYO) paid an official visit to High Chief Abdulwaheed Gbadamosi Bamidele Eletu-Odibo, the Olisa of Iworo and Oba-Elect of Osapa London. During the visit, OLYO conferred upon him the prestigious “Grand Patronship Award” in recognition of his unwavering support and dedication to the organization’s mission. Additionally, the leadership presented the “100 Participants Monthly Environmental Sanitation Proposal,” an initiative aimed at enhancing environmental cleanliness within the community.
The convener of OLYO, Comrade Rilwan Muritala Eletu-Odibo, delivered a heartfelt speech acknowledging the instrumental role High Chief Abdulwaheed Eletu-Odibo has played in the establishment and growth of the organization. He described him as the pillar of OLYO’s existence and expressed deep gratitude for his guidance and support.
In his remarks, Comrade Rilwan stated, “We give thanks to Almighty God for His grace and for your continuous support as the leader of the Osapa London community. It is our duty to return to you and provide an update on our progress, our current status, and the proposal we are presenting today.
“Daddy (Chief Abdulwaheed) has been the backbone of our organization. Nothing significant has happened within OLYO without his consent and blessings. The foundation of OLYO was laid down by Daddy himself. I vividly recall when Comrade Saheed and I approached him in the early stages of this organization, and he advised us to be mindful of the individuals we allowed into our ranks. He assured us of his unwavering support, and true to his word, his backing gave birth to the Osapa London Youth Organization we see today.
“Without Daddy’s support, the venue for our monthly meetings might not have been available for us. His influence made it possible for Eti-Osa Local Government officials to inspect our meetings, recognize our work, and grant us approval to operate. This is just one of the many contributions he has made toward our success.
“Beyond that, Daddy has provided financial assistance to OLYO, supporting us in distributing awards and other essential initiatives. We are immensely grateful for his generosity.
“When we conceived the idea of launching a community engagement initiative, we recognized that Osapa London is a rapidly expanding community that is on the path to becoming a kingdom. While the area boasts strong infrastructural development, we also need to focus on human capital development, particularly for our youth. This is the core mission of OLYO.
“Environmental sanitation emerged as our priority project. The Lagos State Government has emphasized the importance of community-driven sanitation initiatives, especially following the recent ban on styrofoam food containers due to their detrimental effects on drainage systems. To support this effort, our proposal includes the introduction of an Ecobarter Reverse Vending Machine, a recycling innovation by a Nigerian company, Ecobarter. This machine will allow residents to deposit empty plastic bottles and cans and earn from it, instead of disposing of them indiscriminately. These items will then be converted into valuable resources rather than waste.
“Another pressing issue is open defecation, particularly around the canal. This practice poses serious health risks to residents. To address this, we propose the installation of mobile public toilets that will be accessible for a minimal fee of N100, ensuring a cleaner and healthier environment.
“The proposal comprehensively covers all necessary sanitation equipment, including retardant vests, boots, gloves, and other essential items. To encourage community participation, we will publicly acknowledge all supporters through various media channels, including social media, print media, electronic media, and television platforms such as LTV. Our goal is to create widespread awareness and recognition for those who contribute to this initiative.”
Comrade Rilwan also highlighted the financial support received thus far and the items already procured for the initiative. He stated, “By God’s grace, the donations we have received have been encouraging. The Executive Chairman of AA Rescue Limited, Mr. Otonye Efebo, pledged and fulfilled a donation of one million naira. Similarly, Engineer Femi Olatunji, Executive Chairman of Monarch Gardens Event Center and Director of Femolat Engineering Service, pledged two million naira and immediately provided one million naira, with a commitment to fulfill the remaining amount as the project progresses.
“We have already purchased essential equipment, including a camera, laptop, tripod stand, and flash, and we will soon unveil awareness banners within the community. As more support comes in, we will continue to acquire additional resources outlined in our proposal. We call on individuals, estate managements, corporate organizations, local, state, and federal governments, as well as multinational institutions, to support this noble cause. Our goal is to begin with 24 participants and gradually expand to 100 as more funds become available.”
In response, High Chief Abdulwaheed Gbadamosi Bamidele Eletu-Odibo commended OLYO for its efforts and offered prayers for the success of the initiative. He urged the leadership to maintain unity and integrity while removing any individuals with ulterior motives. He pledged a donation of five hundred thousand naira to support the initiative.
He stated, “I have listened to all that you have said, and I pray that Almighty God will grant you success. None of you will fall victim to misfortune, and those who doubt your efforts will be proven wrong. This is how community development begins, and I encourage you to remain steadfast.
“Remember the legacy of your ancestors as you embark on this journey. The individuals who have contributed financially to this cause see you as well-raised and responsible youths, which is why they are willing to invest in you.
“Let unity be your guiding principle. While it is natural for individuals to have different perspectives, you must ensure that selfish interests do not derail your mission. You must resist any temptation to mismanage funds. If you remain diligent, the Lagos State Government may recognize your efforts and entrust you with larger responsibilities.
“As Osapa London continues to grow, security and development must be in the hands of its youth. Education alone is not enough; practical engagement is essential. If you prove your commitment, the security architecture of Osapa London will be entrusted to you.
“I urge you to eliminate any negative influences, particularly individuals involved in drug abuse. They should not be part of your ranks. Stay focused and dedicated, and success will follow. In my name, I pledge five hundred thousand naira to this cause. Environmental sanitation is crucial, and if implemented effectively, it will transform our community. I also intend to join you on some sanitation exercises to lead by example. With consistency, significant improvements will be evident within three months.”
Additionally, High Chief Abdulwaheed’s ally, Mr. Femi Ojebode, praised Comrade Rilwan’s leadership and efforts. He recalled how Rilwan and Comrade Saheed sought his guidance in the early stages of OLYO’s formation. He emphasized the importance of youth engagement in community decision-making, noting that politicians seeking support must consult with the youth, who serve as the voice and negotiators for the community’s best interests.
The visit concluded with renewed commitments from all stakeholders to drive the environmental sanitation initiative forward, ensuring a cleaner and more organized Osapa London community.
Signed:
Rilwan Muritala Eletu-Odibo
Convener/President
Phillips Moses
Media Director & Publicity
Festus Ohuche
Publisher
30th March, 2025
