It was a moment of glitz and glamour at Aso-Ayegunle Community in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State capital as a philanthropist, Hon Toyin Obayemi donated a modern market to traders in a bid to boost the economy of the vicinity.
The market which comprises 20 open spaces with toilets is located at the heart of Community.
Members of the community who could not hode their feelings were seen chanting songs to show their excitement and to also praise the donour for coming to the aid.
The building was commissioned by the Eyesorun of Ado-Ekiti, Olori Abosede Adejugbe who commended Hon. Olayemi for investing in the growth and development of Ado Ekiti.
Speaking with journalists on Monday, the donor, Hon Toyin Obayemi said the purpose of the construction was part of his social responsibility to contribute to the economic development of Ekiti and also put smiles on the faces of people.
He said the building was also to honour his late wife, Aanuoluwapo Obayemi, who was also a philanthropist during her time on earth.
Obayemi noted that he had promised the community during the 2022 electioneering campaign, that he would give them a market whether he win or lose election.
He described the market as a space for connection where farmers, traders and customers will meet not just to exchange goods but to share stories, build relationships, and strengthen the bonds that makes a community.
His words, “Today is not just about cutting a ribbon or opening stalls; it is about celebrating progress, unity, and the shared determination that has brought us this far.
“In year 2022 was here with our people who believe in my dreams and passion for a good governance to campaign and solicited for your vote. In response Baba Solomo Osho remarks he requested for a market building if I win the election. I said to baba and the people in the community that if I win in their community either I’m declared winner or not at the overall election, I promise to come back and Construct a modern marketing place as requested and I told my late wife immediately I got home to note it down, she said dear either you win or lose the election we must fulfil the promise.
“This market is more than a structure of bricks, wood, and steel. It is a living symbol of hope, a testament to what we can achieve when we work together. It is a place where dreams will take root, where businesses will grow, and where families will find opportunities to thrive. This is a space for connection-where farmers, traders, and customers will meet not just to exchange goods but to share stories, build relationships, and strengthen the bonds that make us a community.
“As we celebrate this achievement, I cannot help but reflect on the personal journey that brought me here today. For while this is a day of joy for all of us, for me it is also a day of remembrance. Today, I honor someone very dear to me-my beloved wife, Obayemi Aanuoluwapo, who is no longer with us in this world but whose spirit remains my guiding light.
“Aanuoluwapo was more than a partner, she was my friend, my confidant, and my greatest source of strength. She believed deeply in the values of kindness, service, and unity. She often reminded me that real wealth is not measured by what we keep, but by what we share. And she lived that truth every single day. Whether it was helping a neighbor in need, encouraging a young entrepreneur, or simply offering a word of comfort, her heart was always open”.
In her remarks, the Eyesorun of Ado-Ekiti, Olori Abosede Adejugbe hailed Obayemi for the project, describing it as a round peg in a round hole, which would boost the economy of the community especially, with the proximity of Ekiti Cargo International Airport.
Residents who could hide their joy, appreciated Hon Obayemi for the donation, promising to make judicious use of the facilitiy.
They equally called on the state governor, Biodun Oyebanji to as a matter of urgency look into the road network of the community, saying this would further aid easy transportation and drive the economy of Ekiti.
