The Indigenous Borehole Drillers Association of Nigeria (IBDAN), Oyo State Chapter, has begun the year with prayers and presentation of Certificate of Membership to members, as well as decoration of elders as Grand Patrons, in appreciation of their contributions to the growth and development of the drilling industry in Oyo State.
The prayer session, held at the Association’s Secretariat, SW3/359 Lemmy House, Fire bus-stop, Challenge, Ibadan, was led by Pastor Adeniyi Badejo and Imam Lawal Oriolowo for the Christian and Islamic rites, respectively.
According to the Chairman of the Association, Comrade Ajibola Anjorin, “the event aimed to give glory to God through prayers, supplication, and praise, coupled with the presentation of certificates and identification cards to bonafide members of the association.”
“The association is new, yet comprised of experienced practitioners with decades of experience in the field. We strongly believe that we dig, and God gives water, which is the center of our philosophy, considering our motto.”
He noted that “Oyo State is a pacesetter, and it is notable that any notable or popular borehole drillers association originates from Oyo State. We are open to working in unity and peace with all drillers’ associations collectively.”
Comrade Anjorin appealed to the federal and state governments to assist the association with loans and grants, stating that expatriates have dominated the market, leaving indigenous drillers at a disadvantage.
“Borehole water is the main source of getting water in Nigeria today. We need training and equipment to meet the 21st-century requirements and challenges. The government should help us compete with these expatriates and empower us.”
Mogaji Abiola, Grand Patron of the association, also appealed to the government for support, stating that “we are seeking government support as regards empowerment. We have Indians competing with us for local jobs, and they are better equipped than us due to the support system given to them by their government.”
Dignitaries who attended the prayer session include Mr. Quadri Ishola, Engr. Alaba, Mogaji Abiola, Engr. Abiona, and Barr. Mojisola Hassan.
