Community leaders, traders and artisans in Ogun State have lauded Governor Dapo Abiodun for his developmental initiatives and support aimed at improving the well-being and economic prosperity of residents.

They gave the commendation during the 2026 International Community Day and World Trades Day, organised by the Ministry of Community Development and Cooperatives at the Social Development Institute, Shasha, Iperu-Remo.

In his address, Chairman, Ogun State Community Development Council, High Chief Adefemi Adetayo, said the administration's people-oriented policies have ensured continued individual and collective prosperity among communities, artisans and businesses in the State.

On his part, the Chairman, Traders and Artisans Council, Comrade Omoniyi Babatope, commended Governor Abiodun for his developmental policies, describing him as the first Governor to approve a N500 million grant to support local artisans in their crafts and businesses, pledging the continued loyalty and support of artisans for all programmes and policies of the administration.

Babatope noted that the government's kind gesture had positively impacted their activities, improved their working conditions, and created greater opportunities for members to expand their businesses and enhance their productivity, urging government to maintain its commitment to initiatives that promote economic growth and the welfare of its members.

In his welcome address, the Commissioner for Community Development and Cooperatives, Hon. Ademola Balogun, said the celebration was an avenue to recognise the contributions of communities to self-help development and the role of artisans and traders in driving economic growth.

Balogun noted that the Day also strengthens the partnership between government and the people, while providing an opportunity to reflect on achievements and renew commitment to programmes that improve livelihoods and promote sustainable development.

He reaffirmed the State Government's commitment to strengthening grassroots participation and ensuring communities remain active partners in their own development, stressing that Community Development Associations and artisans are critical in identifying local needs, mobilising residents, promoting peaceful coexistence and implementing self-help projects.

In their goodwill messages, the Ebumawe of Ago-Iwoye, Oba Abdul-Razak Adenugba, the Osi of Egbaland, Senator Olabode Mustapha and Engnr. Bayo Dayo commended Governor Abiodun for the giant strides recorded across all sectors of the State, enjoining community leaders and Trade Artisans to sustain their support for the present administration in the State.

Highpoint of the day was presentation of Grant- in- Aid and subventions to Community Development Associations (CDAs) including Itesuwaju CDA, Ado-Odo Ota, Ikene Area CDA, Egba Aarin ACDA, Ogun State Traders and Artisans Council, and Ogun State Community Development Council 

It also featured presentation of awards of Recognition to distinguished personalities including former Commissioner in the Ministry, Hon. Gbenga Ademosun, Ebumawe of Ago Iwoye, Oba Abdulrazak Adenugba, House of Representative Member, Imeko Afon Federal Constituency, Hon.Gboyega Nasiru Isiaka, Elder Adeshina Adejumo, Ologere of Ogere, Oba James Obafemi Saliu and Clerk of the Ogun State House of Asembly, Mr. Sakirudeen Adebakin in recognition of their selfless service to community development in the State.