The Chairman, House Committee on Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) and member representing Ibarapa East/Ido Federal Constituency, Oyo State, Engr. Aderemi Oseni has expressed solidarity with traders who suffered losses in the recent fire outbreak at Aleshinloye Market, Ibadan.

The inferno, which occurred in the early hours of Wednesday, engulfed parts of the bustling commercial hub, destroying goods worth millions of naira. The cause of the fire is yet to be ascertained, but the extent of destruction has drawn widespread sympathy from political leaders, business stakeholders, and the general public.

In a statement issued by his media aide, Idowu Ayodele, in Ibadan, the lawmaker described the incident as a tragic setback for hardworking traders who rely on the market for their livelihood. He urged government agencies at all levels to swiftly intervene and support the victims in rebuilding their businesses.

“I stand in solidarity with the traders and entrepreneurs of Aleshinloye Market in this difficult time. This disaster is a painful reminder of the urgent need for enhanced fire safety measures in our marketplaces. I urge both the Oyo State Government and federal agencies to provide immediate relief and long-term solutions to support those affected,” he said.

Oseni also emphasised the importance of proactive disaster management strategies, calling for the implementation of modern fire prevention infrastructure in major markets across the state. He further encouraged well-meaning individuals, corporate organisations, and relevant authorities to extend support to the affected traders.

The lawmaker reiterated his commitment to advocating for policies that protect small business owners from unforeseen disasters, stressing the need for a collaborative approach to safeguarding the economic interests of traders and artisans.

The Federal Government has lamented the neglect of Nigeria’s leather industry, stating that the sector has the potential to generate over N23 billion and provide employment for nearly 700,000 Nigerians.

The Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Maiha, made this known on Wednesday while speaking on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily, monitored by Mega Icon Magazine. He expressed concern that Nigerians were consuming hides and skins—materials that could otherwise be used for manufacturing leather products.

“If I tell you now, we are eating shoes, we are eating bags, we are eating belts, somebody begins to wonder, why do you say I’m eating my shoes? I’m eating my bags, I’m eating my belts. Of course, these are hides and skins that we are eating,” he stated.

Maiha stressed that the widespread consumption of animal hides (commonly known as ponmo) as food has resulted in the loss of billions of naira in potential revenue for the leather industry. He emphasized the need for centralized abattoirs and skin collection centers to optimize the use of hides and skins for industrial purposes.

“For you to optimize skin collection, you need a central animal processing unit. By our estimation, that industry can employ almost 700,000 Nigerians and, by value, our own estimation, about N23bn. Now, we are not there yet because of certain incidences,” the minister noted.

Maiha also cited the success of the shoe-making industries in Maiduguri and Aba, where local manufacturers are already producing high-quality footwear, including jungle boots for the armed forces. He argued that Nigeria has the capacity to manufacture most of the shoes currently being imported, urging citizens to embrace locally made products.

The minister further warned against the health hazards of using kerosene to burn animal skins, stressing the need for safer and more hygienic processing methods.

With the right investments and policies, Maiha believes Nigeria’s leather industry could become a major economic driver, creating jobs and boosting local production in the fashion and manufacturing sectors.

The lawmaker representing Ibarapa East/Ido Federal Constituency, Engr. Aderemi Oseni, has paid glowing tribute to renowned elder statesman and one of the progressive leaders in Oyo State, Pa Timothy Jolaoso, on his 90th birthday.

Describing the nonagenarian as a beacon of wisdom and a staunch advocate of progressive ideals, Oseni lauded his remarkable contributions to the political and socio-economic development of the state.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, by his media aide, Idowu Ayodele, and made available to newsmen in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital,  Oseni extolled Pa Jolaoso’s virtues, emphasising his unwavering commitment to democracy, good governance, and grassroots empowerment. He noted that the celebrant’s selfless service has helped shape the political landscape of the federal constituency and  Oyo State, making him a respected figure in both political and social spheres.

“Pa Jolaoso is not just a political leader; he is a mentor and a guiding light whose wealth of experience has continued to inspire generations,” Oseni said. “His sacrifices and dedication to the progressive cause are invaluable, and his contributions to the socio-political development of Oyo State are etched in history.”

The federal lawmaker, who also chairs the House Committee on Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA), acknowledged Pa Jolaoso’s role in nurturing young leaders, fostering political stability, and promoting policies that uplift the masses. He stated that the elder statesman’s life is a testament to resilience, dedication, and unwavering patriotism.

The APC chieftain further highlighted Pa Jolaoso’s humility and integrity, noting that despite his age and achievements, he has remained accessible and deeply concerned about the welfare of his people.

“His passion for the progress of our dear state is second to none, and his words of wisdom continue to shape policies that drive sustainable development,” the lawmaker added.

The lawmaker also recognised the celebrant’s immense contributions to community development, emphasising his role in championing educational advancement, economic empowerment, and infrastructural growth.

“Pa Jolaoso’s vision for a better society has manifested in countless ways, and we owe him immense gratitude for his lifetime of service,” he said.

On this significant milestone, Oseni joined family, friends, and associates in celebrating the elder statesman, praying that God grants him more years of good health, peace, and fulfillment. He urged younger generations to emulate the celebrant’s virtues and adopt his philosophy of selfless leadership and dedication to the common good.

“At 90, Pa Jolaoso remains an inspiration to all of us. His legacy will continue to guide and motivate future generations of leaders,” Oseni concluded.