Okun Unity is Possible: Harnessing One Voice and Many Hands for Collective Prosperity – Dr. Aiyeku Olufemi Samuel
Lead Consultant, Global Human capital & Energy Management
The Okun people, the Yoruba-speaking indigenes of Kogi State, occupy the western axis of the state and have historically contributed to the intellectual, cultural, economic, and political development of Nigeria. Known for their hospitality, rich heritage, industriousness, and deep-rooted cultural ties to the wider Yoruba race, the Okun people have often been regarded as the bridge between Northern and Southwestern Nigeria. Despite these strengths, they have endured decades of political marginalization, developmental neglect, and disunity. The Okun Development Initiatives (ODI), through its forthcoming Second Okun Summit 2.0, themed “Okun Unity: The Power of One Voice, The Strength of Many Hands”, is once again rallying sons and daughters of Okunland at home and in the diaspora to unite, build synergy, and take charge of their collective destiny.
The call for unity is timely and anchored on a strong rhetorical affirmation: “Okun Unity is Attainable and Achievable”. However, challenges persist.
– The fragmentation of voices among political, traditional, and youth leadership undermines strategic representation.
– Disunity and Fragmentation: The Okun people face the challenge of disunity, which hinders collective progress and development
– Lack of cohesive socio-political ideology and collective negotiation platforms limits developmental opportunities.
– The youth population, which should be the backbone of unity, often remain uninformed, disengaged or underutilized.
– Absence of well-structured economic cooperation frameworks within Okunland prevents optimal use of human and natural resources.
– Infrastructure deficits, such as poor roads, healthcare, and limited access to higher education, continue to alienate communities from modern development.
– Cultural Erosion: The Okun culture and traditions are at risk of erosion due to modernization and urbanization.
In addressing these issues, the summit aims to foster a renewed sense of purpose, unity, and shared commitment.
– Strategic collaboration across communities, professional associations, and diaspora groups will be encouraged.
– Emphasis will be placed on grassroots mobilization, inclusive decision-making, and structured youth mentorship.
– The summit will champion the need for a regional economic blueprint that includes agriculture, education, digital literacy, and tourism development.
– Traditional rulers and religious leaders will be key facilitators in consolidating communal values, guiding reconciliation, and enhancing moral leadership.
– Diaspora Okun sons and daughters will be encouraged to invest in their homeland—financially, intellectually, and politically.
The Second Okun Summit 2.0 is not just a conference; it is a movement. It represents the rebirth of a collective consciousness where Okunland speaks with one voice and acts with many hands. It is a strategic platform to align our aspirations with action, and our identity with innovation.
Special commendations must be extended to our revered Royal Highnesses, whose wisdom and presence remain pillars of cultural stability. We equally recognize the dedication of the summit facilitators, sponsors, and technical partners who have invested time, resources, and vision to make this historic gathering a reality. The commitment of the Okun Development Initiatives stakeholders is laudable, as it has consistently championed unity and growth in our region.
In closing, let it echo beyond boundaries that Okunland is rising. We must come together regardless of age, status, or location to build the Okun Nation of our dreams, one united step at a time. The power of one voice has never been louder, and the strength of many hands has never been more needed.
