The 74th Annual General Meeting of Tede Abejoye Parapo commenced on Tuesday in Tede, Atisbo LGA of Oyo State, with calls for greater unity, security and collective efforts towards the development of the community.
The three-day meeting, which started at the Tede Parapo Town Hall, Oja-Oba, is themed “Rethinking Security in Our Homeland: Evolving Challenges and Collective Responses.”
The opening day attracted the Onitede-in- council, community leaders, religious leaders, professionals and members of the association from home and its diaspora branches.
The programme commenced with prayers led by Muslim and Christian clerics, followed by the national anthem, Oyo State anthem, Tede Town Pledge and Tede Town Anthem.
In his welcome address, the Chairman of Tede Parapo, Mr J.A. Ayansiji, welcomed members and guests to the annual gathering, while the National President, Dcn. M.K. Ogunkunle, delivered the opening remarks.
The Onitede of Tede, HRM Oba Abdul Rauf Adebimpe Oladoyin, Gbángbadé Erun II, also addressed the gathering as the royal father of the occasion who prayed fervently for the development, progress and prosperity of the sons and daughters of Tede, both at home and in the diaspora.
He prayed for continued unity, success and advancement among the people, while seeking divine blessings and greater opportunities for Tede indigenes ahead of the next annual general meeting.
He also urged the people to remain committed to peace, unity and collective efforts towards the sustainable development of the community.
The meeting also featured a remembrance of departed members and recognition of representatives of the association’s diaspora branches.
Reports on the activities of the association during the past year, diaspora branches and the youth wing were presented, alongside financial matters and a report on activities at the farmers’ market.
Security and governance also featured prominently, with representatives of relevant government agencies invited to interact with participants and respond to questions on issues affecting the community.
Among the agencies listed for engagement were the police, National Orientation Agency, State Security Service, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Town Planning authorities, immigration authorities and the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company.
The first day also featured the introduction of members of the fundraising committee, a traditional performance, interaction with invited guests and general announcements.
The organisers said the annual meeting provides an avenue for Tede indigenes at home and abroad to deliberate on issues affecting the community and strengthen cooperation towards its development.
The AGM will continue on Wednesday with a lecture by Prof. Tajudeen Amusat Okekunle of the University of Ilorin, alongside discussions with education and other community stakeholders.
The meeting is expected to end on Thursday with further deliberations, engagement with political and community stakeholders, and fundraising for ongoing projects and community development initiatives.