SAF Properties & Investment has reaffirmed its commitment to sustainable development, job creation, and long-term socio-economic benefits for the Ado-Odo community in Ado-Odo/Ota Federal Constituency, Ogun State.
During a stakeholders’ meeting held on Friday at the Ado-Odo Town Hall, the company’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Alhaji Safiriyu Adebanjo Kazeem, assured residents that SAF’s operations would prioritize responsible investment and community welfare, rather than mere resource extraction.
He categorically stated that the company is not engaged in any form of illegal mining and that all necessary government approvals and documents have been fully acquired to ensure compliance with relevant regulations.
The gathering brought together a diverse group of attendees, including community leaders, high chiefs, elders-in-council, the Chief Imam, the President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), leaders of traditional worshippers, youth representatives, and other key stakeholders.
Kazeem emphasized that SAF Properties & Investment aims to establish a sustainable business model with lasting positive impact.
Key initiatives include reclaiming mined land for agricultural purposes specifically cultivating plantain, which will be processed into plantain chips and flour, thereby generating employment for local residents.
Additionally, the company plans to offer skill acquisition training for youths, both male and female, in high-demand, marketable skills that can provide sustainable income opportunities both locally and internationally.
“As the Chairman of SAF Properties & Investment, I want to allay the fears of those who believe our presence in Ado-Odo will mirror that of previous companies that abandoned projects. SAF is here with a difference,” Kazeem stated.
In response, Elder Olusegun Aina, President of the Ado-Odo Club and Chief Coordinator of Ado-Odo Professionals, announced that the community has decided to form a committee to thoroughly review SAF’s proposal. This aligns with directives from the Adimula of Ado-Odo, Oba Olusola Idris Osolo (Otenibotemole II).
Aina noted that the committee would carefully examine issues related to environmental impact and community welfare before presenting findings to the monarch for a final decision.
He welcomed further engagements suggested by the SAF chairman and expressed openness to necessary adjustments, adding that the community is not objecting to discussions.
He assured that the community’s youths would remain peaceful and respect the monarch’s ultimate authority.
“We have spoken to our youths, and violence will not occur. We respect the decision of our Kabiyesi, who is our number one citizen.”
