The traditional ruler of Babanla in Kwara State, Adegboyega Yusuf Alabi Arojojoye II, has pledged to donate the community’s expansive forest to the government for investment opportunities.
The initiative is aimed at creating jobs and transforming livelihoods for residents.
Speaking at a press conference in Ilorin, the state capital, the monarch also called for the establishment of a military base to safeguard the area.
Oba Arojojoye II said the large forest, which stretches into Edu, Patigi, Oke-Ero local government areas in Kwara State and the neighbouring Kogi State in North Central Nigeria, could serve as a hub for agriculture, industry and other economic ventures if secured and properly utilised.
“When the Governor came and asked that if this forest is cleared, are we ready to give it to the government, I said yes. We are ready to give it to the government so that any investor can make use of the forest,” he stated.
The Monarch added that the establishment of a military formation close to the forest would help protect the area from criminals and boost investor confidence.
“I appeal to the government to assist us. When the Army GOC came, I told him that the solution is for them to comb this largest forest for us so that these criminals will leave that place for us. I told the GOC that we want them to place an Army Base very close to that forest so that we won’t have problem again about the invaders,” he said.
Oba Arojojoye II also dismissed as false, rumours linking his palace or bank accounts to proceeds of kidnapping, stressing that security investigations had confirmed no wrongdoing.
“So, no traditional ruler is in the net of the security agencies. I believe that these people spreading rumour are the enemies of the community. But I’m telling you that they have not found any amount of money in my house,” he said.
He acknowledged the interventions of Nigerian government, state and local authorities in improving security in Babanla, noting that residents now enjoy relative peace and go about their daily activities without fear.
The Monarch further expressed optimism that with government’s support, the forestland could be converted into a centre of economic opportunities, bringing lasting benefits to Babanla and surrounding communities.
PIAK