In his New Year message, Yerima congratulated residents on the successful crossing into another year, offering prayers for divine guidance, stability, progress, and personal fulfilment for families, communities, and businesses across Ona Ara. He described the new year as a fresh chapter—one that calls for reflection on past experiences while deliberately positioning the people for a better collective future.
Yerima expressed sincere appreciation to the resilient and hardworking people of Ona Ara for their perseverance, sense of community, and belief in shared progress despite economic pressures and social challenges experienced in the outgoing year. According to him, the strength of any local government lies not only in leadership structures but in the spirit, unity, and cooperation of its people.
Reflecting on the year that just ended, Yerima encouraged residents to adopt a mindset of gratitude, drawing inspiration from the timeless message of “counting one’s blessings.” He noted that while 2025 came with undeniable challenges—ranging from rising living costs to pressures on small businesses—it also delivered lessons, opportunities, and moments that proved the enduring resilience of the Ona Ara people.
He emphasized that progress is never accidental but a product of shared vision and collective responsibility, urging residents to continue embracing peace, tolerance, and mutual respect in their daily interactions. According to Yerima, unity remains the most powerful tool for sustainable development, social stability, and meaningful representation.
> “When communities stand together with a shared sense of purpose, leadership becomes more effective and the future becomes clearer,” he noted.
Looking ahead to 2026, Yerima described the year as one filled with renewed possibilities, calling on youths, elders, professionals, artisans, and community leaders to remain engaged in conversations about governance, development, and representation. He stressed the importance of leaders staying connected to the realities at the grassroots, noting that policies and decisions must always reflect the lived experiences of the people.
While refraining from making sweeping declarations, the tone of Yerima’s message clearly reflected readiness for greater responsibility—anchored on listening, accessibility, and people-centred leadership. Observers see the message as part of a broader effort to redefine political engagement in Ona Ara, placing emphasis on inclusion, accountability, and forward planning.
Yerima also appealed for continued prayers and cooperation among residents, stressing that no meaningful transformation can occur without trust between leaders and the people. He reaffirmed his belief that Ona Ara possesses the human capital, cultural strength, and communal spirit required to thrive when guided by purposeful leadership.
As he concluded, Hon. Oluwafemi Abolade Gabriel (Yerima) wished the people of Ona Ara a year filled with peace, progress, and renewed confidence in what lies ahead.
> “May 2026 strengthen our unity, sharpen our vision, and move us closer to the future our people truly deserve,” he said. “Together, we can make the coming years count.”
Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Long live Oyo State.
Long live Ona Ara Local Government.
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