A fresh wave of hope is sweeping through Ondo East Local Government as the Itesiwaju Movement officially launched on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at Bolorunduro Town Hall. Over 500 indigenes gathered for the unveiling of this grassroots-driven initiative focused on inclusive and community-led development.
Led by Dr. Femi Akinkuebi, Founder of the Movement and MD of Ore Industrial Park, the launch introduced the Itesiwaju Development Wheel—a ten-point agenda addressing electricity, youth empowerment, agriculture, women’s inclusion, infrastructure, peacebuilding, and civic engagement.
Dr. Akinkuebi challenged residents to take ownership of their future, stressing that “development must become a civic duty, not a political favor.” He linked the movement’s vision to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, declaring, “Hope must be rooted in the community. That’s what we’re doing—turning Renewed Hope into Renewed Action.”
The event drew delegations from villages like Fagbo, Sokoto, Tekuile, and Oboto, with traditional rulers and youth groups lending cultural and generational support. A workshop on self-discovery, led by leadership coach Bayo Babatunde, empowered young participants to lead with confidence and character.
During a community panel, residents voiced frustrations over long-standing neglect and hunger for opportunity. Logistics coordinator Kehinde Betiku noted, “People are desperate not just for food, but for visibility and empowerment.”
Women’s groups also played a central role, reinforcing the Movement’s commitment to inclusive development. The Ondo East Youth Council President, Akinkuolie Tomide Sodiq, urged young people to move from protest to purposeful action.
Going forward, the Itesiwaju Movement plans to form development clusters, conduct civic education, document community needs, and partner with NGOs, government bodies, and private sector stakeholders.
In Dr. Akinkuebi’s words, “Itesiwaju is not just a campaign. It is a covenant—a commitment to move from survival to significance.” With that, a new chapter begins in Ondo East, led not by promises, but by people.