President Friday Igbinoba has significantly transformed the Akugbe-Oretin Development Association since assuming leadership around 2020. Originally established on 69th Street in Chicago, the association has experienced a remarkable upward trajectory under his guidance.
He has demonstrated exceptional initiative, inspiring community members to become more dedicated to the organization’s success. His efforts, along with those of committed members, have led to the pooling of resources and collaboration within the community, resulting in the acquisition of a new building in Markham, Illinois.
This new cultural center, an adaptive reuse of an existing church, serves as an event, culture, and art hub. It plays a crucial role in promoting culture and will uniquely house and display internationally acclaimed, authentic African and bronze art created by the Edo People and Benin Nation of Africa.
The association has established channels to import replicas of the Benin bronzes directly from Nigeria, allowing them to be showcased at the center to narrate the story of the Edo People and the Benin Empire.
Moreover, Mr. Igbinoba has restructured the organization to ensure members have functional roles, enhancing sustainability and progressiveness. His exceptional effort, commitment, and passion have been instrumental in transforming the Akugbe-Oretin Development Association into its current state.
President Igbinoba’s leadership has set the association on a path of success and expansion, with a strong focus on connecting and collaborating with diverse community members, promoting culture, preserving heritage, and developing initiatives to address economic and educational opportunity gaps.