By joshua At Ayere Day Celebration, Senator Karimi Donates ₦5m to Palace Project, Commends Prince Olatunji Olusoji’s Philanthropy
Senator Sunday Steve Karimi, representing Kogi West Senatorial District, has donated ₦5 million towards the construction of the Ayere Community Palace, describing the project as vital to cultural preservation and grassroots development.
Senator Karimi announced the donation at the 31st edition of the Atuwusi Ayere Community Cultural Day Celebration 2026, held in Ayere, Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State.
In his address, the lawmaker extolled the Asiwaju of Ayere Kingdom, Asiwaju Prince Dr. Olatunji Olusoji, as a worthy ambassador of the community whose philanthropy and selfless service have brought honour to the Kingdom.
He described the Managing Director/CEO of Grosvenor Global Services Limited as an exemplary figure who has shown that true success is measured by how it uplifts others.
“Prince Olusoji exemplifies philanthropy, selfless service and commitment to grassroots development. He has continued to distinguish himself through humanitarian service and dedication to his ancestral community,” Karimi said.
The senator used the occasion to showcase his stewardship since assuming office in 2023, noting that his representation has been driven by purposeful leadership and people-oriented interventions.
He listed his achievements to include interventions in education, road infrastructure and provision of potable water, with motorised boreholes installed across all 85 political wards in Kogi West, including Ayere/Arima Ward.
According to him, the projects reflect the development philosophy of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its commitment to improving the welfare of Nigerians despite current economic challenges.
Karimi also rallied support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, urging the people of Ijumu and Kogi West to remain steadfast behind the APC-led Federal Government.
He expressed confidence that the ongoing reforms would yield economic stability and long-term prosperity, and called on the electorate to support the President’s re-election bid in 2027 to consolidate on the gains.
The donation to the palace project was received with applause by community leaders. The palace, when completed, is expected to serve as the administrative and cultural nerve-centre of the Kingdom, preserving Ayere’s heritage and providing a befitting venue for traditional and community engagements.
The festival was graced by the Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Mrs. Folashade Arike Ayoade; State Security Adviser, Commander Jerry Omodara (rtd); Executive Chairman of Ijumu LGA, Hon. Ibrahim Haruna; Hon. Ade Omofaiye, traditional rulers and other dignitaries.
The annual Atuwusi Festival remains Ayere’s foremost cultural showcase, celebrating its agrarian heritage, reinforcing unity, and mobilising sons and daughters at home and in the diaspora for the development of the Kingdom.
This year’s edition combined cultural splendour with a renewed call for partnership between political leaders, traditional institutions and philanthropists like Prince Olusoji to drive sustainable development at the grassroots.