The latest Segilola community development projects in Osun State received a major boost after the Owa Obokun of Ijesaland, Oba Clement Adesuyi Haastrup (Ajimoko III), visited key facilities and commissioned several completed projects across host communities.
The visit formed part of the monarch’s inspection tour of important industries and development initiatives within Ijesaland. During the tour, the royal father assessed ongoing investments by Segilola Resources Operating Limited (SROL) and highlighted the importance of sustainable community growth.
Owa Obokun Tours Segilola Facilities
The Owa Obokun visited the operations of Segilola Resources Operating Limited in Odo-Ijesa, Osun State.
Representing the company’s leadership, Deputy General Manager Olusola Olusomidomo welcomed the monarch on behalf of Chief Executive Officer Segun Lawson.
During the visit, Oba Haastrup inspected several facilities, including the Segilola Gold Mine and the mining site pit.
He also toured the community-owned Ogere-Ekun Golden Water Factory located in Iperindo, as well as the LRP Ifesowapo Fish Market.
The inspection allowed the monarch to assess projects designed to improve economic opportunities and living conditions within the host communities.
Major Infrastructure Projects Commissioned
A key highlight of the visit was the commissioning of several projects delivered under the Community Development Agreement (CDA) framework.
The completed projects included the rehabilitation of the Imogbara-Odo-Ijesha road corridor, the reconstruction of the Olumolu of Imogbara Palace, and a newly completed classroom block at Imogbara Primary School.
According to SROL, these projects demonstrate its commitment to infrastructure development, economic empowerment, and sustainable community engagement.
The company stated that the initiatives have already generated direct employment for more than 80 people from surrounding communities.
SROL also disclosed that 27 percent of workers at the Segilola Gold Mine come from host communities, while 25 percent of its workforce originates from Osun State.
Water Factory Designed for Long-Term Economic Growth
One of the most significant projects inspected during the visit was the Ogere-Ekun Golden Water Factory.
Located in Iperindo, the facility was developed as a community-owned business under the company’s CDA commitments.
The factory is expected to produce up to 3,000 litres of treated water every hour once fully operational.
Its facilities include reverse osmosis and ozone treatment systems, sachet water production lines, bottle manufacturing equipment, steam labelling machines, and backup power infrastructure.
Supporting facilities include storage tanks, a borehole water source, production halls, warehouses, loading areas, and perimeter security structures.
According to SROL, the factory was established as a self-sustaining business capable of generating long-term revenue for the host communities.
The project also aims to reduce dependence on external water suppliers while creating employment opportunities for local residents.
A Board of Trustees made up of community representatives will oversee the facility’s operations to ensure transparency and local ownership.
Road Rehabilitation Improves Accessibility
SROL also completed the rehabilitation of a 2.4-kilometre road linking Imogbara and Odo-Ijesha.
The project involved grading works, laterite filling, compaction, and the construction of rigid pavement sections using interlocking stones.
To improve durability, engineers incorporated drainage systems on both sides of the road.
The project also included culvert installations in strategic locations to reduce flooding and improve water flow.
The upgraded road is expected to enhance transportation, improve access to economic opportunities, and increase safety for motorists and pedestrians.
Monarch Praises Community Impact
Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, Oba Haastrup commended Segilola Resources Operating Limited for its contributions to economic development and job creation.
The monarch noted that the company has provided employment opportunities to more than 2,000 individuals across the South-West region.
He added that about 40 percent of those beneficiaries come from communities within Ijesaland.
Oba Haastrup also stressed the importance of implementing Community Development Agreements and Corporate Social Responsibility programmes that directly improve the lives of local residents.
SROL Highlights Benefits of Development Projects
Community Development and Stakeholder Manager, Madhurii Sarkar-Amoda, explained that the projects were designed to address critical social and economic needs.
According to her, access to safe drinking water remains a challenge in many parts of Nigeria.
She said the water factory would provide a reliable source of clean drinking water while creating sustainable economic opportunities for the community.
Sarkar-Amoda also noted that the rehabilitated road would improve movement between communities, support local businesses, reduce flooding, and increase public safety.
She described the projects as long-term investments that would continue benefiting residents even beyond the lifespan of mining operations.
The newly commissioned Segilola community development projects highlight the growing role of public-private partnerships in community transformation across Osun State.
From road rehabilitation and educational infrastructure to water production and job creation, the initiatives reflect a broader commitment to sustainable development.
As host communities continue to benefit from these investments, stakeholders believe the projects will strengthen economic growth, improve living standards, and create lasting value throughout Ijesaland.
Leave a comment