By Bode Durojaiye
In today’s fast-paced world, building stronger communities is more important than ever. It’s not just about bricks and mortar; it’s about creating a sense of unity and collaboration that brings people together for a common goal.
When a communi is strong, it thrives, and the impact can be felt in every aspect of life – from increased safety and security to improved educational opportunities and a vibrant local economy.
These were were part of the advocacy of His Imperial Majesty, the Alaafin and Paramount Ruler of Oyo Kingdom, Oba Engineer Abimbola Akeem Owoade 1, at the grand finale of the World Oyo Congress held on Saturday, 27th of December , 2025 , at the Palace.
In his address, Alaafin said building strong communities takes more than just goodwill, as it requires a commitment to unity and collaboration, where individuals and organizations work together towards a shared vision.
"" By leveraging the power of unity, we can tackle social issues, support local businesses, and create a sense of belonging that fosters happiness and well-being.
""Strong communities provide a foundation for a thriving society. They create a sense of belonging and connectedness among individuals, fostering a shared responsibility for the well-being of the community as a whole. When people feel connected to their community, they are m ore likely to actively participate and contribute to its growth and development.
"" One of the key benefits of building stronger communities is increased safety and security. When community members unite and collaborate, they can work together to address and prevent crime, creating a safer environment for everyone. By looking out for one another and establishing strong relationships, communities can build a network of support that deters criminal activities"".
Oba Owoade went further, "" additionally, strong communities contribute to a vibrant local economy. When community members support local businesses, it not only helps them thrive but also creates job opportunities for residents. By promoting entrepreneurship and encouraging residents to shop locally, a strong community can boost economic growth and ensure the sustainability of its local businesses"".
He pointed out that unity and collaboration are essential components of building stronger communities, adding that when individuals and organizations work together towards a common goal, they can achieve far more than if they were to tackle issues individually.
The power of unity, he noted, lies in the Congress collective strngsength it brings, amplifying the impact of community-building efforts.nd
The Paramount Ruler who laude d the organisers of the Congress called on Oyo both at home and in the diaspora to close ranks, eschew bickerings and vendetta, and work for the goodness of their country home.
Bode Durojaiye is the Director of Media and Publicity to the Alaafin, Paramount Ruler of Oyo Kingdom and the Titan of Yorubaland.
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