The Olofa of Offa, Oba Mufutau Gbadamosi Okikiola Esuwoye II, Ajagbagungbade I, has formally endorsed the ‘Omo Offa Ni Mi’ Initiative, a groundbreaking identification project exclusively for Offa indigenes.
The endorsement ceremony took place today at the palace of the monarch, where Oba Mufutau Muhammed Gbadamosi warmly received a delegation led by Air Vice Marshal (AVM) Abdulfatai Olabisi (Rtd).
The delegation also included Prof. Nazimat Surajudeen Bakinde, Secretary-General of the initiative; Engr. Abdulhakeem Garba, General Manager of the project; Alhaji Usman Fodio; and Engr. Abdulfatai Kolawole Yusuf.
The event was graced by notable dignitaries such as High Chief Joseph Bayo Akinola, Ojomu of Offaland; High Chief Alhaji Al-Maroof Olaniyi Balogun, Balogun of Offaland; and High Chief Isiaka Adebayo Shittu, Asaloffa of Offaland.
In his remarks, AVM Abdulfatai Olabisi emphasized the transformative vision behind the ‘Omo Offa Ni Mi’ Project, describing it as a strategic step toward making Offa a digital city by 2030.
The initiative is designed to create a comprehensive identity database for all Offa indigenes worldwide, integrated into the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) system.
“This project will provide identity for Offa indigenes wherever they are. With the increasing adoption of e-governance, our Royal Father envisions Offa as a smart city by 2030. This identity card will facilitate transparent planning and effective implementation of developmental projects,” Olabisi explained.
The identity card will serve as a multi-functional tool, doubling as a transaction card similar to an ATM card. A percentage of every transaction made with the card will generate revenue for the local government, providing sustainable funding for infrastructural development and social amenities. The project aims to map demographic data, enabling the identification of population segments such as children, young adults, and the elderly.
“By 2030, Offa Local Government will be fully digitalized, allowing real-time access to information and fostering efficient governance. This is a project that will continue to benefit Offa for generations,” Olabisi added.
The initiative is also designed to bridge local and global connections. With its database, the project will identify Offa indigenes in various clusters, both within Nigeria and abroad, aiding in the planning of targeted social initiatives such as elder care homes or youth development programs.
“We are working closely with NIMC to ensure the project aligns with global standards and e-governance. The data collected will empower us to make informed decisions for inclusive development,” Olabisi noted.
Oba Mufutau Gbadamosi assured the delegation of the community’s unwavering support for the project, reiterating the importance of the initiative to Offa’s future.
“We are satisfied with the royal blessing from Kabiyesi,” Olabisi remarked. “This endorsement is crucial for informing all strata of Offa society and fostering widespread acceptance. With all materials for the project ready, we are set to proceed.”
The ‘Omo Offa Ni Mi’ Initiative was conceived by Engr. (Dr.) Moshood Kola Gbolasere Balogun, Founder/Chairman of Momas Electricity Meters Manufacturing Company Limited (MEMMCOL) and the ONEIH-Kola Balogun Technology Center (O-KBTC). His visionary leadership positions the project as a cornerstone for Offa’s advancement, aligning technology with inclusive community development.
The delegation also visited the Offa Local Government Secretariat, where they held discussions with Hon. Dupe Jejeloye Ajibade (Nee Olawoyin), Vice Chairman of Offa Local Government, and Hon. Sharafa Olawale Mustapha Sharon, Speaker of the local government. During this visit, the project’s potential for fostering governance efficiency and community inclusion was further discussed.
Additionally, the team visited the One Innovation Hub Offa and the ONEIH-Kola Balogun Technology Center (O-KBTC), both pivotal centers for technology and innovation in Offa. These visits highlighted the synergy between the project and the town’s broader technological aspirations.
As Offa charts its course toward becoming a digital city, the ‘Omo Offa Ni Mi’ Project stands as a testament to innovation, inclusion, and sustainable development, cementing its place as a model for other communities nationwide.
