The Babaloja of Bodija Market, Alhaji Sunmaila Aderemi Jimoh, has expressed gratitude to the Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde, for the honour bestowed on him by naming the newly constructed 540 modern shops and motor park at Market after him.
The landmark project, executed by the Executive Chairman, Ibadan North Local Government, Oluwaseun Olufade, was part of ongoing efforts to restore order, enhance commerce and improve the welfare of traders within the ever bustling Bodija Market.
In an emotional appreciation message made available to newsmen, Alhaji Jimoh described the governor’s gesture as a rare act of love, compassion and recognition that he never envisaged.
“Yesterday was the happiest day of my life. I did not see this coming at all.
For His Excellency to name such a monumental project after me is a surprise I will cherish forever.
I am deeply overwhelmed and sincerely grateful,” he said.
The highly revered market leader commended Governor Makinde for his unwavering commitment to the welfare of traders, particularly the relocation of roadside traders to a well-structured, beautiful and secured shops free of charge.
He noted that the governor’s intervention has restored dignity to traders and enhanced the aesthetics, safety and organization of the Bodija community as a whole.
“This singular act shows the Governor’s genuine love for market men and women. He did not only approve and support the building of these shops through the local government; he ensured that traders benefited from them free of charge.
That is compassion in action. That is leadership with a human face,” he added.
Alhaji Jimoh, on behalf of the Ibadan Foodstuff Sellers Association, Bodija Market Chapter, thanked the governor and state government for the developmental stride, describing the project as a laudable gift that will permanently transform trading activities in the market.
“The entire Ibadan Foodstuff Sellers Association, Bodija Chapter, appreciates His Excellency immensely for this great honour and for all he has consistently been doing for Bodija Market. We cannot thank him enough,” he stated.
He also acknowledged the efforts of Hon. Olufade for ensuring the successful execution of the project, noting that the synergy between the state and the local government made the dream come true.
“The entire market leadership of Bodija Market is saying a very big thank you to Governor Seyi Makinde and to our Executive Chairman, Hon. Oluwaseun Olufade.
We are proud and grateful,” he said.
The Babaloja prayed that God Almighty would continue to grant Governor Makinde the desires of his heart, bless him with good health and grant him even greater positive surprises throughout his lifetime, just as he has pleasantly surprised him.
He concluded by praying for divine wisdom and strength for the governor, as he continues to pilot the affairs of the pace setter State to greater heights, while reaffirming the commitment of Bodija Market traders to always maintaining order and supporting government policies for the overall development of the state.
