IMASAYI– The Olu of Imasayi, Oba Lukman Adeleke Kuoye, has emphasised on the critical role of the private sector in driving socio-economic growth in both rural and urban communities, particularly in addressing unemployment.
The monarch made this known on Tuesday during the groundbreaking ceremony of Aspire Development Company in Imasayi, a company focused on industrial development and construction of a modern residential houses.
Aspire Development is sited in the heart of Imasayi, with close proximity 3 kilometres to the Dangote Cement Plant in Ibese.
In his welcome address, Oba Kuoye stated that the project would stimulate economic growth, create employment opportunities for indigenes, and significantly reduce unemployment in the community.
He explained that his support for Aspire Development was based on its commitment to job creation and inclusivity, stressing that indigenes of Imasayi would be integrated into the company’s administrative structure.
“This is about tackling unemployment, and it is commendable that the company is committed to employing locals and developing the community. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), which includes management positions for community members, is a significant step forward,”.
He also appealed to the youth of Imasayi to cooperate with the community leadership and Aspire Development to ensure the timely and successful execution of the project.
“I urge our youths to collaborate with the community and Aspire Development so that we can achieve these goals within the expected timeframe,”
Also speaking, the Alale of Ajilete, Oba Kazeem Amosu, urged residents to warmly embrace the company, noting that Yewa remains largely underdeveloped adding that the success of Aspire Development would attract more investors to the area.
The Chairman of the Baales also appealed to the company to prioritise the employment of Imasayi indigenes, rather than hiring outsiders who may not have a direct stake in the growth and development of the community.
In his remarks, the Managing Director of Aspire Development, Mr. Tunji Lawson, said the decision to establish the company in Imasayi was driven by the town’s vast potential, abundant resources, and rich human capital.
He explained that Aspire Development operates a two-pronged model that combines industrial development, through manufacturing and processing with residential development aimed at addressing the housing deficit.
According to Lawson, the company’s approach is to strike a balance between business sustainability and community development, ensuring mutual benefits for both Aspire Development and its host community.
He hinted that collaboration among the private sector, government, and host communities is essential for sustainable development, describing such partnerships as a win-win arrangement.
“The synergy between the private sector and government is crucial. With strong collaboration from both local and federal governments, we can successfully implement these projects. Government support plays a huge role, just as private industries must also assess the impact of their investments,”
He added that Aspire Development is committed to creating jobs and building skills among residents in both the short and long term, enabling them to pursue careers in directly and indirectly related fields.
“There are significant synergies and opportunities for collaboration, and we are confident that this partnership will deliver positive and lasting impact on employment and economic development in Imasayi,” Lawson said.
