The sophomore edition of the PITO magazine has been another success. For all the support we have received since the inception of the Project Independence To Ososo (PITO) now Ososo PITO Development Foundation (OPDF), our utmost thanks and appreciation goes out. Like every budding projects, there was loss of hope about its birthing but with the help of some well-meaning Ososo indigenes, who gave the encouragement and assistance for the inauguration of the project. We have built on that platform and for the second year running, we are even better.In 2021, five of our ambassadors were able to record a musical track to encourage them. Of importance is the showcasing of our traditional fabrics; Ulalo and Ukperori to the world and not only that, but four indigenes of Ososo descent were trained in the art of weaving the fabrics, thereby empowering them. They have started gaining income from this trade. PITO has not only paid and trained these graduands but also equipped them with the necessary tools of trade.Their graduation day was well attended with pomp and pageantry. Some of the special guests like Chief Ajaga of Ososo land, the Hon. Emmanuel Agbaje and Prince Dele Obaitan, the Honourable Commissioner for Arts, Culture, Tourism and Diaspora, Edo state gave their goodwill messages to the trainees and other youths and encouraged them to learn a trade. The second phase of the training will start soon.Also, since entertainment is on the platform, we have been able to bring various artistes together for collaborations. Some of the artistes, include Leegit an American rapper, Empeace Osoname and Zealano to record a musical piece “Ogbogbe”. Kokoma music, a genre of music long forgotten, was revived after PITO met the man who introduced it to Ososo, Mr. Oseke. He said his musical journey was cut off because he did not have his instruments and we have noted that in due time, we will acquire the instruments for him.Through the Ososo PITO Development Foundation we are prepared to interact with other stakeholders for full development and poverty eradication.ULALO AND UKPERORIUlalo and Ukperori are ancient traditional attires that are woven and used for important festivals like Itakpo and weddings, burials, etc. The mastery of this art was set in place by our fore bearers, but the skill was lost as there was no direct training to younger generations. In the quest to bring back this art of weaving the fabrics, four youths have been sponsored and trained. They are Wilfred Gift Orifa, Gbenga Mary, Bodunde Abiodun and Olorunfemi Favour. It will interest you to know that they are self-sustaining themselves now.Come 29th December, 2022 the Ososo PITO Development Foundation will be having another grand event to mark its third anniversary at Ososo in Edo state. It promises to be a festival of a fusion of culture, entertainment and goodwill for all indigenes and visitors alike.
