From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
The Igbaja Queens Club (IQC), a women-led community development organisation in Igbaja, Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, has marked its first anniversary by highlighting its contributions to grassroots welfare, education, and empowerment.
Founded on June 11, 2025, the club was established to promote unity, support vulnerable groups, advance education, and create opportunities for women and youth development.
Speaking on the milestone, the club’s President, Dr. Mrs. Mosunmola Abdulwaheed, described the past year as one of dedication and steady progress despite prevailing socio-economic and security challenges.
“Our first year has been a journey of learning, commitment, and collective sacrifice. We began with a vision to serve our community, and I am proud that our members have remained steadfast,” she said.
She noted that the club’s achievements reflect the commitment of members both at home and in the diaspora, stressing that sustainable development requires collective responsibility.
General Secretary, Queen Muibat Olagunju, attributed the club’s success to unity and effective coordination, explaining that monthly virtual meetings have enabled members across different locations to actively participate in planning and executing programmes.
Since its inauguration, IQC has distributed cooked meals and food palliatives to vulnerable residents and donated educational materials to students. During the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir celebration, it also provided food items to disadvantaged households.
A major ongoing initiative is the proposed establishment of a vocational education and skills acquisition centre in Igbaja to equip women and youths with practical skills for economic self-reliance. The club said it is engaging stakeholders and partners to realise the project.
In furtherance of its educational goals, IQC recently organised an essay competition for students of Muslim Secondary Commercial School (MUSECO), Baptist Grammar School, and other secondary schools in Igbaja. Held on June 5, 2026, the competition focused on the theme, “Impact of Insecurity on Education in Our Community,” and was designed to encourage critical thinking while raising awareness about the effects of insecurity on learning. The initiative has received commendation from community leaders.
The Elese of Igbaja, His Royal Majesty Oba Ahmed Awuni Babalola Arepo III, described the club as a symbol of unity, compassion, and selfless service, urging members to sustain their efforts.
Similarly, the Asiwaju of Igbomina Land and Arogundade of Lagos, Alhaji AbdulRaheem Oladimeji, praised the organisation for demonstrating the positive impact of organised women in community development and encouraged it to remain inclusive and innovative.
As part of the anniversary celebration, the leadership expressed appreciation to pioneer members, executives, committee members, supporters, and families whose sacrifices and financial contributions have sustained the organisation.
Looking ahead, IQC reaffirmed its commitment to expanding its empowerment programmes, strengthening educational initiatives, deepening welfare interventions, and advancing plans for its proposed vocational training centre.
Observers say the club’s first year demonstrates the growing role of women-led organisations in driving grassroots development and creating meaningful social impact.

