Oba Balogun Celebrates Five Years Of Outstanding Footprint
An international businessman turned traditional ruler His Royal Majesty Oba Babatunde Balogun has celebrate five years of outstanding foot print on the throne.
Responding to questions from a newshunt the easy going royal father the Solu of Solu-Alade reveals his track record on the throne over the years. Excerpts
Q; Kabiyesi, what has been your success story over the years ?
A: Thank you for that important question. By the special grace of Almighty God, and with the collective support of my chiefs, elders, and the resilient sons and daughters of Solu-Alade both at home and in the diaspora, the past five years have been marked by steady progress, strategic advocacy, and deepened community development.
One of our proudest achievements is the restoration of peace, cultural values, and unity among our people. Our traditional festivals and heritage practices have regained honour and are now celebrated with pride and wide participation.
On the developmental front, we have successfully influenced key projects through collaboration with various arms of government. For example, through the support of the Ibeju-Lekki Local Government Chairman, we facilitated the rehabilitation and renovation of our Community Healthcare Centre, improving access to essential medical services.
Similarly, with the strong intervention of the Honourable Member representing Ibeju-Lekki Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, we achieved the expansion of our community's primary school and its upgrade to a Junior Secondary School - a major step towards educational empowerment for our children.
Another critical step we have taken, under my leadership, is the ongoing clearing of our swamp areas within Solu-Alade. This initiative is not just about land recovery - it is a strategic move towards expansion, infrastructure development, and attracting both local and international investors. We have a vast expanse of land suitable for industrial purposes, and we believe that by opening up these spaces, we can create job opportunities and economic growth for our people.
We must not wait for the government to do everything. As a responsible and forward-looking community, we are taking the initiative. All we ask is that the government officially release these lands to the community so we can maximize their potential for development and industrialization.
In all, the last five years have laid a strong foundation. Solu-Alade is rising - not just as a custodian of tradition, but as a community prepared for the future. And with continued unity and divine guidance, I believe the best is yet to come."
Q: Alayeluwa what is your view on the construction of the coastal road?
A: Let me begin by expressing sincere appreciation to the Federal Government and all relevant stakeholders for the bold step taken towards the construction of the Coastal Road - a project of historic significance not only for Lagos State but for Nigeria as a whole.
For us in Solu-Alade, this road represents more than just infrastructure; it signifies connectivity, opportunity, and development. It will open up access to many of our coastal communities, boost commerce, enhance tourism, and most importantly, provide new economic prospects for our people.
However, while we celebrate the vision behind this massive project, it is also important to ensure that the local communities along the route - including Solu-Alade - are not left behind in the actual benefits. We must be considered in matters of compensation, environmental impact, and employment opportunities. The people of the land must not only be consulted but also carried along in the implementation.
As a traditional ruler, I am ready to continue engaging with the relevant authorities to ensure that Solu-Alade is well-positioned to benefit from this national project. We are also prepared to welcome partnerships and investors who may find this new road an avenue to discover the potential of our lands.
In summary, the Coastal Road is a welcome development. It aligns with our vision for growth, and with unity, wisdom, and proper consultation, it will become a blessing to our people and generations to come."
Q: where are we in Solu-alade and where are we supposed to be ?
A:"Thank you for that thoughtful question. As a traditional ruler deeply committed to the progress of my people, I must say that while we are grateful for the few interventions we have received, there is still much that needs urgent attention in Solu-Alade and its surrounding communities.
First and foremost, we need deliberate government investment in infrastructure - especially roads, drainage, and electrification. Our people are industrious, but poor road networks and limited access to electricity continue to hinder economic growth and discourage investors.
Secondly, we seek the government's intervention in the full release and proper documentation of community lands. Solu-Alade has vast expanses of land that are suitable for industrial development, agriculture, and housing. If these lands are officially handed back to the community or made accessible through proper channels, we can partner with investors to create industries and job opportunities for our youth.
Healthcare and education also remain top priorities. While we have recorded some progress, we still need more functional primary healthcare centres, maternity facilities, and modern educational infrastructure - especially technical and vocational training centres for our growing youth population.
Additionally, I would like to see the establishment of a police post or security outpost within Solu-Alade. As development comes in, so must security. Government support in this area will go a long way in maintaining peace and attracting responsible development.
Finally, I appeal for the inclusion of Solu-Alade in more state and federal development plans - not just as an afterthought, but as an emerging community with great potential. We are ready to partner with government agencies, private organizations, and NGOs to bring lasting development to our people.
As Kabiyesi, I do not believe in waiting or blaming. I believe in partnership, advocacy, and action - and I am confident that with the right support, Solu-Alade will rise to become a shining example of grassroots development."
Q; what is your message to the people?
A:"My message to the good people of Solu-Alade - both at home and in the diaspora - is one of unity, hope, and collective responsibility. We are a blessed people with a rich history, a proud culture, and a promising future. But to truly move forward, we must stand together.
This is not the time for division or complacency. It is the time for community building, for lifting one another, and for participating actively in the growth of our land. The palace alone cannot do it. The government alone cannot do it. But together - as sons and daughters of Solu-Alade - we can achieve greatness.
Let us continue to respect our traditions, promote peace, support education, and empower our youth. Let us protect our land and prepare it for responsible development. And above all, let us not forget the power of prayer and hard work - the two pillars that have always sustained us.
As your Kabiyesi, I remain committed to serving you with truth, with vision, and with love. I will continue to speak for you, advocate for you, and stand by you in the journey ahead. May God Almighty bless Solu-Alade, guide our leaders, and reward the labour of our ancestors and forebears."
