The Oyo Alaafin Market and Artisan Leaders Association, a formidable body representing the leadership of all market and artisan unions across the four local government areas in Oyo-Alaafin, has pledged total support for the forthcoming Oyo World Congress (OWC), scheduled to hold in December 2025.

The association brought together notable market and artisan leaders under the leadership of Hon. Nuran Alade Eleniyan (Babaloja General of Oyo-Alaafin), Alhaja Peju Bakare (Iyaloja General of Oyo-Alaafin), and Iyaafin Omowumi Ajibike Ajiwumi (Iyalaje of Oyo State) and other leaders in each Local Government; Alhaji Fatai Ayesoro (Babaloja of Atiba LGA), Alhaja Fatima Abdullah (Iyaloja of Atiba LGA), Hon. Adedeji Derin (Babaloja, Afijio LGA), Mrs. Mistura Kolawole (Iyaloja, Afijio LGA), Baba Oguntunju Ezikel (Babaloja, Oyo West LGA), Alhaja Fatima Araokanmi (Iyaloja of Oyo West LGA), Alhaji Dauda Ojo Atayese (Babaloja, Oyo East LGA).

The Oyo World Congress delegates, led by Mr. Oladele Adekola Oluwatoyin, CEO of Olarich Multitrade International and Project Convener, alongside Prince Kolawole Kadewolu Adeyemi, representing the Oyo Descendants Union (ODU) of the UK/Ireland, Mr. Yusuf Ogundipe, and Erelojasi Quadri, introduced the vision of the Congress to the association. They explained that the OWC is a non-political social and cultural platform for dialogue, planning, and development among indigenes of Oyo-Alaafin both at home and abroad.

According to them, the OWC seeks to foster unity, promote youth empowerment, encourage economic development, and enhance educational opportunities through collaborative efforts. They emphasized that the Congress would serve as a rallying point for progress, bringing together intellectuals, entrepreneurs, and traditional stakeholders to plan Oyo’s next phase of growth.

Following their presentation, the market and artisan leaders expressed profound excitement and pledged their full participation and cooperation to ensure the Congress’s success.

They described the initiative as a long-awaited development that would strengthen unity and preserve the rich legacy of Oyo-Alaafin.

The Godfather of the Association, Alhaji Bashir Adeyanju, who also leads the vulcanizers Association in Oyo, said the delegates’ visit brought “the kind of good news the Oyo people have long prayed for.” He recalled that a similar movement initiated in 1974 lost momentum due to low public participation but expressed confidence that the OWC would succeed this time. “Do not be discouraged by challenges or critics,” he advised. “Some people only support ideas when they originate from them, but true patriots will always stand by a just and progressive cause.”

He urged the OWC committee to maintain an inclusive approach by consulting all key stakeholders, the same way they had engaged the Market and Artisan Leaders Association.

Hon. Nuran Alade Eleniyan, Babaloja General of Oyo-Alaafin, said the Congress represents a new dawn for the people of Oyo.

“This Congress is not just an event; it is a symbol of unity and rebirth for our land. We, the market community, are at the heart of Oyo’s economy, and we will fully support this noble cause. I urge all traders, artisans, and entrepreneurs to see the Oyo World Congress as their own project and participate actively.”

Alhaja Peju Bakare, Iyaloja General of Oyo-Alaafin, also reaffirmed her commitment and that of her members to the Congress.

“The Oyo market women are solidly behind this movement. We have always stood for progress, and we are happy to be part of this historic initiative. The Congress will not only project our heritage but also create opportunities for our children and empower our people. I encourage every Oyo son and daughter to join hands and make this vision a success.”

Iyaafin Omowumi Ajibike Ajiwumi, Iyalaje of Oyo State, commended the organizers for their foresight and dedication.

“What the Oyo World Congress stands for aligns with the spirit of unity our ancestors lived by. Development begins when people come together under one purpose. I advise the planning committee to remain transparent, inclusive, and focused on long-term impact. Together, we can write a new chapter of progress for Oyo-Alaafin.”

The Oyo Alaafin Market and Artisan Leaders Association concluded the meeting with a collective resolution to mobilize their members for the December 2025 event, pledging to serve as ambassadors of unity, culture, and development for Oyo-Alaafin at the Oyo World Congress.