The coming together of stakeholders from across Yagbaland with a shared vision is a purposeful move towards unlocking regional potentials. This is according a paper delivered by a grassroots development and community relations professional, Tade Oshaloto at the 2025 Apapo Omo Yagba Unity Summit in Mopa the headquarters of Mopamuro LGA.
According to Oshaloto, a reliable pathway towards stimulating sustainable infrastructure and economic development in the region requires the transformative power of unity and strategic planning and communication.
Oshaloto, a former Senior Special Assistant to former executive governor of Kogi State and current public relations officer at the Kogi State University, Kabba emphasized that the summit marked a turning point for Yagba people in achieving purposeful, people-driven, and sustainable infrastructure which he described as the bedrock of economic growth.
> “Convening this summit shows we’re ready to unlock our collective potentials,” Oshaloto declared, calling on government bodies, development partners, private investors, and the diaspora to rally around infrastructural initiatives in the region.”
He highlighted the importance of built, hybrid, and natural infrastructure, stressing that true development must integrate economic, environmental, and social sustainability.
“Infrastructure isn’t just bricks and mortar. It’s about planning with purpose and ensuring ownership by the people,” he added.
Oshaloto challenged the region to leverage its most vital resource—its people—referring to them as the “fourth infrastructure.” He encouraged strategic communication, data-driven planning, and community-led initiatives while urging youth, royal fathers, and elected officials to take active roles in advocating and attracting development.
The guest speaker commended the summit organizers for their vision and leadership, particularly appreciating the Chairman organizing committee, Engr. Ayodele Osasona and the secretary Prince Philip Sesan Orebiyi (Secretary), and the Chairman of the occasion, Alhaji Tajudeen Bissimilahi, for their commitment to the cause of Yagba development.
He called on the people to sustain action by ensuring Yagbaland rises and network as a socio-economic force through unity, strategy, and shared commitment.