THE CONTRIBUTION OF ADESOYE HOLDINGS NIG. PLC TO THE ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT OF OFFA 1982 TO 2009
BY
OLAWOYIN JOHN OLAJIRE
MATRIC NO:
07/15CA082
BEING A PROPOSAL FOR THE B.A. PROJECT IN DEPARTMENT OF HISTORY AND
INTERNATIONAL STUDIES, UNIVERSITY OF ILORIN.
IN PARTIAL FULFILLMENT OF THE AWARD OF B.A. DEGREE.
SUPERVISOR:
DR. BASHIR OLAITAN IBRAHIM i

CERTIFICATION
This project was read and approved as meeting the requirement for the award of Bachelor of Arts (Hons) Degree in History and International Studies, of the
University of Ilorin Nigeria.
DR. BASHIR O. IBRAHIM
SUPERVISOR
DR. SAMUEL O. AGHALINO
HEAD OF DEPARTMENT
EXTERNAL EXAMINER
DATE
DATE
DATE
SIGNATURE
SIGNATURE
SIGNATURE ii

DEDICATION
This project is dedicated to almighty God, the giver and taker of life, He that pave way, where there is no way. Also to my beloved Parent, Mr. and Mrs. S.A.
Olawoyin for your care throughout my University years. iii

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Glory be to God, the Alpha and the Omega, the unchangeable changer, who had been my inception. I am very grateful to my Supervisor, Dr. Bashir Olaitan
Ibrahim, for his effort which was of immense help to me during the process of writing this essay. I am particularly grateful for his support and guidance which culminated in the successful completion of this research. I pray that may your mission be accomplished. Thank you sir.
Am using this opportunity to appreciate all the lecturers of History and
International Studies Department for their contributions to my academic pursuit, and all the non-teaching staff of the department.
If there is anybody in this party that deserves much of gratitude, My Parent
Mr. & Mrs. Olawoyin should be number one, whom my source of courage and zeal rest. You are my great matigue of which my power is sourced from and all my achievements and a foot in life so far lies. I give it all to you Father, and Mother for being there at all time.
My appreciation also goes to Ven. Samuel O. Ojo, and Ven. & Mrs. Deleola
Opeyemi (Daddy G.O) of Iyeru Okin African Church Offa. Your prayer, advice and encouragement kept me moving. May the heaven’s light continue to be your guild; your ministries and Families shall never lack good things.
I can not forget the unlimited support of Dr. and Mrs. Bayo Afolabi of Obafemi
Awolowo University, Ile-ife. Your support during my information gathering for this project would linger for life in my memory. Also, Dr. (Mrs.) R.O. Bukoye (My
Landlady) of Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida University, Lapai, Niger state. Mummy, your motherly care was all that sustained when the road seems blocked, God
Almighty would repay you in hundred folds. Unforgettably, is Rev. Mobolaji
Thompson of African Church Ibadan, Oyo state, thank you sir.
My appreciation also goes to my sisters, Mrs. Bunmi Olawoyin-Bakare, Kemi and Doyin for being there for me. I can not forget the contribution of Mr. Lekan
Adepoju (Baba Ibeji), you gave assistance at the very point of my need, may almighty meet you at the very point of your need.
To my friends, Onifade John Olalekan (The Auditor), Olaniyi Omokayode
(Engr. Kaydot), Adeshina Ridwan, You are too much. Also to my friends in Unilorin,
Rotr. Ajibola Segun Michael, Adebara Michael Oladimeji, Jimoh Kayode, Folashade
Olubukola Abioje, Tinuoye Aderonke, Sen. AbdulLateef Damilare (Sen. Dre) and lots iv

more. I say thank you all, I pray we meet again in future to come, the sky is never the limit but a sleeping stone to success.
Lastly, I am externally grateful to all who have made this work a success through indispensable co-operation.
Thank you all.
Olawoyin John Olajire
(Abọrẹ) 2011 v

TABLE OF CONTENT
Title page
Certification
Dedication
Acknowledgement
Table of content i ii iii iv-v vi
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background of the Study
1.2 Aims and Objectives
1.3 Scope of the Study
1.4 Research Methodology
1.5 Limitation of the Study
1
2-3
3-4
1.6 Literature Review
1.7 Foot notes and References
4
5-6
6-7
8
CHAPTER TWO
THE EVOLUTION AND GROWTH OF INDIGENOUS INDUSTRIES BEFORE THE COMING
OF ADESOYE HOLDINGS
2.1 Weaving Industry 9-11
2.2 Factor for the growth of weaving industries in Offa
2.3 Problems of indigenous weaving industry
2.4 The Socio-Economic importance of weaving industry
2.5 Blacksmith Industry
2.6 The Importance of Blacksmiths Industry
2.7 Decorated Calabashes
2.8 Importance of Decorated Calabashes
11-12
12
12-13
13-14
14-15
15-16
16-17 vi

2.9 References
CHAPTER THREE
18
THE EVOLUTION AND GROWTH OF ADESOYE HOLDINGS
3.1 Okin Biscuit Industrial Limited 19-20
3.2 The factors responsible for the growth of Okin Biscuit Limited, Offa 20-21
3.3 Okin Foam Industrial Limited, Offa 21
3.4 The factors for the growth of Okin Foam Industrial Limited, Offa 21-22
3.5 Okin Malt
3.6 Noble Beer Breweries, Offa
22-23
23
3.7 The Socio-Economic contribution of the Industry (Brewing Industry) 23-25
3.8 Adesoye College
3.9 Factors for the growth of Adesoye College
3.10 References
25-26
26-27
28
CHAPTER FOUR
CONCLUSION
4.1 The importance of Adesoye Holding in the Socio-Economic Development of
Offa 29-32
4.2 Problems encountered by Adesoye Holdings 33-34
4.3 References
BIBLIOGRAPHY
35
36-39
APPENDIXES
INTRODUCTION
1.1 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY
Adesoye holdings are a multi-company organization, which is situated in Offa Local
Government area of Kwara. Although, it has branches all over the country, but its vii

headquarters based in Offa. Offa is a known town in Western Nigeria and it is a town in present day Kwara state. Offa is located on latitude 810 0 North and longitude 440 0 east on the map of Nigeria. The town occupied a prominent position in pre-colonial
Nigeria history. Its eminence rested on the fact that it played a crucial role in the socio-economic and political events that took place in Yoruba land. For example,
Moremi, an heroine in Yoruba history came from Offa to save the People of Ife from the incursion of the Igbos. Also, the Bashorun in AlaafinOjigi,s reign, died in a ditch while he was leading an expedition towards Offa.
The town also played host to the Fulani Jihadists from Ilorin. The process of territorial conquest led to the subjugation of Offa in the 1830s. it featured prominently in the Ekiti-Parapo wars at the end of which the British came to dictate peace in 1893. All these demonstrated the socio-economic importance of Offa before and during colonial period. Apart from the above, however, Offa dwellers engaged in various commercial economic activities such as farming, craftwork e.g. weaving, blacksmith, goldsmith, pot-making and calabash decoration. It was noted through an interview that only fishing work is not prominent in the area.
1.2 AIMS AND OBJECTIVES
The Adesoye holdings is an economic organization that is non-governmental in funding, but has board of directors with Chief E.O. Adesoye as the chairman of the
Board of Directors. The Adesoye holdings was sub-divided into groups with each of them producing one thing or the other, which have no doubt, better the lots of Offa citizen, Kwara as a whole, and Nigeria at large. The organization has its aim and viii

objectives as “conformability and enjoyment at low cost”. Therefore, all the branches of the holding take part one way or the other in achieving this aims and objectives.
This work is set to discuss the history of Adesoye Holdings, how it came to being, its early formation stages, various challenges encountered by the chairman board of directors in ensuring the sustainability of the age-long achievement of the holdings.
Without mincing words, the study would let the entire holdings know the importance of the good work they are doing for the community that enjoyed their services, and as such should continue in the good work they’ve embark upon, thus it also aim at telling the society to be suggestive whenever they have any advice that can move the
Adesoye Holdings forward, as they stand to lose a lot if the holdings fail in its productions.
This essay is embarked upon to make an in-depth study of Adesoye Holdings in Offa.
It also looks into the roles, aims and objectives of the Adesoye Holdings to the economic development of Offa, how it contributed to the spread and growth of more industries in Offa, it also aimed at evaluating and simplifying a number of growth within the holdings itself, most especially, the spread of its branches all over the country.
The work tends to look at the financing of the holdings, and how, or the manner which the holdings use in sustaining the tempo and creating more awareness about the goods and services coming out of the holdings. It shall also inform the society, the extent to which the Adesoye holdings had use the human and natural resources in producing several goods which are of great use to the populace. ix

It is also meant to sensitize the workers of the holdings on the importance of their contributions to the development of the holdings, and also the need for the workers to appreciate the board of directors for the employment given to them, which had assisted them in keeping their various families. It is also important to state that this study is not merely aimed at highlighting the empirical and theoretical writings of the study, rather, it aims at increasing our understanding in all ramifications of the study and to contribute to scholars by critically examining the roles of Adesoye Holdings in the economic development of Offa. In other words, this study would aim at throwing more light on the more practical aspect of this topic.
1.3 SCOPE OF THE STUDY
The scope of the study is very wide, as the study attempts shall be made to trace the emergence of some firms in Offa before the coming of Adesoye Holdings in 1982.
Thus, the establishment of Adesoye Holdings in Offa Local Government Areas of
Kwara State, with its aims and objectives to be looked into. This work tends to bring out the various goods produce in each of the companies under the Adesoye holdings, and that is why the cheaper three of this project talks about various companies under the Adesoye Holdings like the Okin Biscuit Nigeria Limited, Adesoye College,
Labande cereals and many others.
The chapter four of the work deals with the economic impact of the Adesoye
Holdings to the development of Offa most especially during the first early years of its establishment, when few firms are only in existence in Offa.
1.4 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY x

In the course of writing this project both primary and secondary sources were consulted. It must be stressed that only few people had worked on the personality of the chairman board directors Adesoye Holdings, Chief Emmanuel Olatunji Adesoye being an industrialist, but the uniqueness of this project is that no one has deemed it fit to look into the aspect of the economic contribution of the Holdings, most especially to the Offa community, and Kwara State as a whole. Knowing fully well that there cannot be a successful community or state without the contributions of industries in order to boost the economic statues of such community or state.
However, since is an attempt to contribute to human knowledge additional information (which forms one of the aims and objectives of the study), this provides a new insight, and an eye-opener about the operatives of the Adesoye Holdings.
1.5 LIMITATION OF THE STUDY
In the course of sourcing for materials for this work, I was faced with the herculean task of knowing the location of the various companies under the Adesoye
Holdings in Offa. When I got to those industries, the needed information given was not detailed, then I embarked on individual interview with important personalities at those companies. At the Adesoye college, a new principal Mr. Bradley Sailes had just taken over from Miss. J. Steward, therefore, he was not willing to grant an oral interviews, because, he does not want to be quoted. But after a much persuasion, he agreed to be interviewed. Also, I was faced with the problem of collecting conflicting information, especially in the aspect of knowing the exact kick-off date of the
Adesoye Holdings. Although the dates given were correct, as some companies had been establish under the holdings in other part of the country like Adesoye was xi

established in 1969, but this work is mostly concern with industries established in
Offa under this holdings, and the first to be established is the Okin Biscuits Limited, which was established in 1982.
In other to establish the validity of oral interview, attempts were made to cross check the information given. Thus, the researcher has been able to separate the truth from fallacy in the information obtained and was finally able to collate this project.
Another constraint is the issue of fund. There was no enough fund at the disposal of the researcher to carry out a more field work, because there are series of interviews needed for the detailed assessment of the roles and contribution of industries under the Adesoye Holdings that were sited in other towns and states, to the economic development of the various towns and states which they were sited. In addition, relevant text could not be found in libraries as related to the Adesoye Holdings.
There was also problem of time, because there were other students and researcher trying to reach the new principal of the Adesoyecollege, Mr. Bradley
Sailes who came from America not quite long. Also, Mr FataiBabatunde who also have othe engagement and other activities of Labande Cereals Limited to attend to.
This made the oral interview meeting time, to be rescheduled for more than two times.
Furthermore, on realizing that the researcher was not one of them, they vehemently refuse to give out their information and therefore, he was subjected to series of interrogations and in most cases, cross examined as if in the law court to xii

ascertain that the researcher is not on a spying mission into the activities of the holdings. Moreover, most of the libraries visited were not in any way useful.
1.6 LITERATURE REVIEW
Many scholars and writers had written on the economic development in Offa, but on a few had written on the contribution of Adesoye Holdings to the economic development of Offa. Therefore, the bulk of materials used were obtained through oral interview, some unpublished materials and a few published material etc.
However, some works have been consulted, among which is “Itan Offa” by Rev. J. B.
Olafimihan.Olafinmihan gave a clear look of Offa before the colonial masters, how the people earn living through war with other weak communities and enslaving them. Rev. J. B. Olafimihan extended his writings to the period of colonial masters, the socio-cultural heritage of Offa, but fails to bring out economic activities of the people of Offa.
1
Another relevant material is that of OkesholaToyinAdewuyi, “The growth of Industry in Offa/Oyun local government, 1960-1990’’ This project is very important to my work in the sense they, it’s about industries that had existed in Offa and Oyun local government area, but it fails to give details of the various industries which it talked about, in fact it was unable to mention all the companies under the Adesoye
Holdings, not to talk about other companies in Offa, this is because its area of coverage is wide, it combined two local government area (Offa/Oyun), and this made the beauty of the work unable to be achieved.
2
Another important contribution to this work is ‘Ijakadi’, a quarterly publication in Offa, which talked about industrial growth in Offa. Not only that the xiii

magazine was brief, but also failed to point out the economic contribution of the
Adesoye holdings to the people of Offa 3 . In addition, a yearly publication of Offa
Students’ Union: ‘Offa M’ojo’, talked about some crisis that had rocked the holdings which led to the closure of Okin Biscuit Limited in the year 2008, but failed to tell, how the holdings overcame the crisis period, and bounced back to life, with Okin
Biscuit Limited now working more efficiently than ever.
4 xiv

REFERENCES
1.
J.B. Olafimihan, Itan Ofa, Ibadan: Abriprina press Ltd, 1967, p.74.
2.
Okeshola, Toyin A., The growth of industry in Offa/Oyun Local Government,
1960- 1990 (Ibadan: Oluade Press, 1995)
3.
E. Mogaji, “Industrial growth in Offa”, Ijakadi (March, 2009) p.33
4.
K. Ojokure, “Industrial Crisis in Offa” , Offa M’ojo (October,2008) p.52
5.
Macmillan, Nation Atlas, (Ibadan: macmillan educational press Ltd. 1978),
6.
O. Aboyade, Industrial location and development policy; Nigeria journal of economic and social studies, vol. 10, 1968.
7.
The Kwara State magazine, “The Achiever” No.1 Vol. 1, march 1993, p.30
8.
O. E. Babatunde, Growth of industries in the western Nigeria, ( Ibadan:
Ojebode press Ltd 1982), p. 23
9.
J.K. Francis “More Industries, More Growth”, Nigeria Tribune June 1996, p. 29.
10.
http://www.international-schoolfriends.com/schools-Adesoye_College-
OffaNigeria-11947-show.html
CHAPTER TWO xv

THE EVOLUTION AND GROWTH OF INDIGENOUS INDUSTRIES BEFORE THE COMING
OF ADESOYE HOLDINGS
Because of no traces of any Industry before the arrival of Adesoye Holdings, then it is necessary to talk more on the economic engagement of Offa people before the coming of the holding.
2.1 WEAVING INDUSTRY
Considerable documentary source materials, both Arabic, European and impressive archaeological evidence exist on the origin of narrowstrip weaving in
West African countries. A survey of these sources is most valuable introduction to the understanding of the nature of weaving in Nigeria, and Offa in Kwara state, in particular.
According to Venice Lamb, cotton weaving emanated in Indian Subcontinent, where fragment from Mohenjo-Daro was recovered, dated to between 3000 and 2500 B.C.
He further explained through cryptogenic evidence that cultivated species of cotton was found among the African and Arabian Anomaly, which drill along the fringes of the Sahara.
1
Coming to Africa, wearing (narrow strip weaving) started in Ghana and extended to other Africa countries including Nigeria through cultural interaction.
Oral tradition, through with presumptive evidence proved that weaving in Nigeria originated and spread from Old Oyo to different part of Yoruba. This could be the aftermath of the nineteenth century wars, which variable led to the fall of Old Oyo
Empire and the migration of people from Old Oyo to different part of the Yoruba land. This however, explained the origin of weaving industry in Offa and her xvi

neighboring towns such as Ipee, Irra, Erin-ile, Igosun etc. Weaving is lucrative to the society. Weaving products are called “ASO OKE” or “ASO OFI” respectively. The cloth is important particularly during ceremonies such as marriage, burial house warming etc.
According to Mr. Olushola Hassan, the manager of Orita-merin weaving industry, Offa; weaving style can be divided into two. The first is known as
‘Alawekan’, while the second is called ‘Alawe-meta’. In Mr. Hassan’s words, “though alawemeta is quiker, it is more expensive than alawekan” for instance, while the production cost of alawekan is N2, 500, alawemeta cost N5, 000. Weaving profession is carried out by both sexes but in different styles of manufacture. The loom is operated with both hands and feet, the threads of the warps are arranged that they open and close by a mechanical contrivance worked by both feet moving alternatively as the pedals of harmonium, with the opening, the disengaged hand is rapidly used in ramming in the thread. The cloth is woven in one strip and cut to required lengths, then tacked together.
2
Weaving instrument are obtained locally, these enhances the industrial production. The first instrument is called ‘serin’ and ‘akanmole’. It is used to straighten cotton meant for production. Oko is another instrument for weaving. The cotton to be used is stored in it. Production is impossible without ‘oko’, it means
‘oko’ plays a vital role in weaving. ‘Assa’ is also an important instrument used for production, and is made of ‘Ifon’. It is used to tie the cloth woven, making it more durable during usage. ‘Gogo’ is part of the materials used by the weavers. It controlled by the legs of the weaver. xvii

The raw-materials used by weavers are cotton, shinning, white, multi-color shining and silk. The weavers used 75% cotton, 15% shinning and 10% silk materials respectively. Shinning materials makes the cloth woven shine, while silk is meant for blending. There are many factors that led to the growth of weaving industries in
Offa.
2.2 FACTORS FOR THE GROWTH OF WEAVING INDUSTRIES IN OFFA.
Weaving is a lucrative and profitable venture to which the society attached more importance. As earlier mentioned, the cloth, particularly among the Yoruba is a ceremonial dress, worn during ceremonies such as marriage, burial, coronation ceremonies etc. the huge demand of it necessitated industrial expansion and accumulation of more capital for industrial growth. The product also served as foreign exchange goods especially with the European goods in the nineteenth century. The importance of this indigenous industry can be traced to the period of
European trade with the Africans in the nineteenth century. People’s aims at acquisition of more cloth in exchange, necessitated the need for industrial development.
The adaptability of local weavers to modern technique enhances their production. The skillful weavers studied the imported woven production and adapted it into their own production. Unlike in the past when shinning silk cloth production is impossible, it is factually easy move in production. This attractiveness made it more demanding. The cheapness of instruments used, which are being produced locally, limit industrial instrumental problems, and facilitate industrial production; this invariably encouraged development of the weaving industries. xviii

The development however, is not to dispute the fact that the industry has obstacles which hindered it production.
2.3 PROBLEMS OF INDIGENOUS WEAVING INDUSTRY
The first obstacle to the industry is lack of sufficient capital needed for industrial development or expansion. Interviews conducted with weavers, it was noted that inadequate capital prevented them from meeting market demands.
Government ban on imported raw-materials greatly affects the industry. The unbanned imported materials were subjected to heavy tariff or custom duty, coupled with inflationary trend. These however, affected the industrial cost of production and subdued their industrial capability. Weaving industries were socio-economically important to the nation as a whole.
2.4 THE SOCIO-ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE OF WEAVING INDUSTRY
The industry created employment opportunity for the people in the area.
Many people livelihood depends on the industry. The product portrays the culture and tradition of the people in the area. It is commonly used in ceremonies such as coronation, marriage, house warming, burial, naming, birthday ceremonies etc. Local government obtained part of their revenue from the industries through collection of toll, which could be in form of rent, tax or royalty. It will be of great advantage, if encouragement is given to the weaving industry by the government, because its socio-economic importance cannot be underestimated.
2.5 BLACKSMITH INDUSTRY xix

Iron work has been known in Nigeria from the earliest time. According to
Talbot P. Biobaku,in his work traced the historical origin of blacksmith in Yoruba land to “Lade’s period”. ‘Lade’ according to Biobaku was the mightiest smith of the past and when he died, ‘Ogun’, god of iron changed all his tools to stone. The stone in the
Ooni’s palace according to him is Lade’s anvil. It was also noted that there was a man called Sokoti-Alagbedeorun who was a spirit and lived in heaven, but was expelled from heaven to earth for his bad deeds. He mixed with the people and became a good blacksmith. In other words, it was Sokoti-Alagbedeorun who brought the idea of blacksmithery to the earth.
3
Frobenius also gave his own myth or tradition about the presence of blacksmith in Yoruba land. Frobenius myth was derived from Ife by the propitiation of Ogun in Oyo kingship ritual, and the tradition in which Ogun was noted as a warrior. According to him, Yoruba people embodied in him concepts of natural energy, impersonal devastation and superhuman destruction. To Frobenius, it seems the coming of iron was apprehended among the Yoruba within a pre-existing Orisa system in which the potency of the unfamiliar metal was explained.
However, the blacksmith work spread to almost all Yoruba land in which Offa is one of the Yoruba lands which the widespread of the work reached in the middle of nineteenth century. The blacksmiths in Offa compete with weavers and the goldsmiths, as the most respected craftsmen on the land. The major raw material used is the iron-ore. The blacksmith industrial products include gun, hoes, axe, hammer, cutlass, key, pliers, and many more. In an interview conducted with Mr.
Tiamiyu Adebayo, a 50years old blacksmith at isale-ago in Offa, it was noted that xx

blacksmithers could produce identically any iron sample work they see. The blacksmiths apparently know how to harden, temper and weld. Their chief implements are hammers, fire-hooks, anvils, files, chisels, tongs, “ewiri”, or bellow as called by whitemen, “akanmole”, “ilu-eruko” etc.
4
2.6 THE IMPORTANCE OF BLACKSMITHS INDUSTRY
The importance of blacksmith industries is not far-fetched, when we note the employment opportunity derived from it by Offa people during this time. For instance, about 15% of the total populations of the area depend directly or indirectly on these industries for their livelihood. Some skillful blacksmiths make the elaborate wrought-iron staffs that are set up in the shrines of the ancestors and the staff of office meant for the King. They also make the iron double gongs that odd their belllike note to the rhythm of the drum orchestra.
With the socio-economic benefit of this industry, it will be an encouraging measure if the Federal Government could establish this type of industry all over the country. This move would limit unemployment problem the nation is currently facing and reduce government dependence on imported arms and ammunitions.
2.7 DECORATED CALABASHES
Calabashes play an important role in the varied music of West Africa. They serve as rattle, large and small with the addition of a skin drum head; they became fat round calabash drums. They are also resonators for xylophones, hanging underneath the wooden keys and sound flutes for stringed instruments. To make a calabash xxi

container, the ripe fruit is soaked to water until the seeds and pulp have rotted and can be scraped out. The calabash can be shaped in various ways, depending on the shape one needs. When the skin of the calabash has been thoroughly dried, it’s then ready for decoration. The craft is usually done by men.
5
Digressing into the background, the historical origin of decorated calabashes work could be traced to decorative arts. First noticed in wood and brass work, and later in pottery and calabash. According to Talbot, the principal classical patterns are those derived from the Greek vine scroll, egg and dart and other border designs while many forms of twisty and plaits would appear to have come via Babylonia and
Egypt from central Asia. Following the oral tradition, though with presumptive evidence; this work or profession was said to have been established firmly in the land as a result of the people’s interaction with Arab traders during trade transactions.
The craft is usually done by men as earlier mentioned. When the calabash is dried, it will change to warm yellow in colour. Though it can be stained into rosy red, dark blue etc. depending on the interest colour. The smooth surface is carved, scraped or engraved. Black patterns are made on it with hot iron. Offa carvers uses simple tools such as sharped knife to cut its geometric designs, they make mark on calabash initiative before carving.
2.8 THE IMPORTANCE OF DECORATED CALABASH
Calabash dressers are always found in a row in market places plying their trade. All sorts of geometrical figures traced or cut in calabashes make them more attractive.
Names, mottoes and phrases are burnt into calabashes by educated artists, while ‘g’ figures are used by uneducated artists. Socially, it serves as a gift during marriages. A xxii

decorated calabash is the traditional present from a young man to the girl he is betroth to; this is very common among the Hausa and Fulani people.
6
Each of the designs represents a proverb, if the proverbs are correctly understood, the lid of the calabash can be read like a love letter, and in other words, it served as communication means. However, the various indigenous industries discusses above, it as a result of non-existence of modem industry not until the establishment of modern industry not until the establishment of the Adesoye
Holdings in Offa marks the arrival of modern industries, as industries like Olalomi carpet, Amukude Steel company, and many more came into being.
8 xxiii

REFERENCES
1.
Lamb Venice, West African weaving, (London, Gerald Duck worth and co. Ltd.)
1961, P. 73
2.
Interview with Mr. Olushola Hassan (45years). The manager “Oritamerin”
Weaving industry Offa, 14/03/2011.
3.
P. Amauri Talbot, the people of southern Nigeria, (London: Humphrey Milford,
1926), P. 939.
4.
Interview with Mr.Tiamiyu Adebayo (50 years), Manager, Isale Ago blacksmith
Industry, Offa, 18/03/2011.
5.
J.F.A Ajayi, S.A. Akintoye, “Yoruba in the nineteenth century” in Obaro Ikimi,
Ground work of Nigerian History. (Heinemann Educational Books (Nig.)
Limited) P. 299.
6.
Samuel Johnson. The History of the Yoruba: (ed.) (Lagos, Lowe&Brydone,
London, 1921). P. 119.
7.
Prince Christine, made in west Africa, (London, Studies vista 1971), P. 971.
8.
K.B.C. Onwubiko, History of West Africa, (Nigeria, Africana-Fep Publishers
Limited), 1975), P. 44. xxiv

CHAPTER THREE
THE EVOLUTION AND GROWTH OF ADESOYE HOLDINGS
3.1. OKIN BISCUIT INDUSTRIAL LIMITED
The first modern industry to be established in Offa was Okin Biscuit (one of the companies of Adesoye Holdings) group of company. Okin Biscuit Limited was based in Offa and was incorporated in May 1978 by one of the Nigeria known
Industrialist and Philanthropist, Chief E.O. Adesoye, in response to the call by colonel
Sunday Ifere, the military administrator of Kwara State, to indigenous businessmen, to come home and give Kwara State a sound Industrial base. The company is one of the confectionary manufacturing industries in Nigeria, and especially in Kwara State, in which both the Government and people place much premium due to its role in economic growth and social development.
Okin Biscuit Industry Limited has growth both in staff, strength and in the quantity and quality of the producers. This phenomenal growth cannot be divorced from the business acumen and astuteness of the holding’s chairman who ensured that the necessary machinery and other vital equipment were brought into the country before December 1979. Between January and May 31, 1980, a period of five months, all the need necessary machines had been completely installed, and by June
2, 1980, an industrial miracle performance had taken place. Within few years of its incorporation, Okin Biscuit Nigeria Limited joined the league of big companies representing the country in trade missions’ abroad.
1
3.2 THE FACTORS RESPONSIBLE FOR THE GROWTH OF OKIN BISCUIT LIMITED,
OFFA. xxv

The secret behind the growth of Okin Biscuit Limited Offa, lies in the management skill and the dexterity of the managers who ensure that the relationship between management and workers is not only cordial but also that the ugly system of master-servant relationship is not incorporated into the company’s management policy. The ability of the management to produce their own raw material locally is no doubts one of the factors for the growth of the company. In
1984, when the Federal Government banned the importation of raw materials from abroad, the company shifted to the usage of 90% local raw materials for its products.
Conscious of its responsibility both socially and economically to the society, Okin
Biscuit Limited devised an indigenous means of overcoming the Federal Government ban on wheat importation. Thus, the company to the giant stride of pioneering the growth of wheat in this part of the country as a step which naturally affected the company’s profit margin especially since high loan interest rate from banks almost coupled it.
2
Though the ban on wheat importation under Chief P.K Keshavan (Then
General Manager) initially affected the usage of local raw materials as earlier mentioned. The management established some farms in areas like Ira in Oyun Local
Government and Babanla in Ifelodun local government of Kwara State. The management also established in Kano state where irrigation lands were available on hire or lease. This was according to the General Manger, Engr. Gbenga Adesoye.
3
Apart from the good technology possessed by the company, the company also has the advantage of good infrastructural facility which invariably facilitated the sale of her product throughout the nation and abroad. The huge development of the xxvi

company within a short time of its existence led to the establishment of her new branch known as Okin foam industrial limited.
3.3 OKIN FOAM INDUSTRIAL LIMITED, OFFA.
Okin foam industrial limited Offa possessed the same historical origin with
Okin Biscuit Limited, Offa, because they were both under the umbrella of Adesoye
Holding. A business survey of Kwara state cannot be complete without mentioning
Okin Foam industrial limited. The company was established in Offa in 1981, beside
Okiniscuit limited directly opposite Oyun Baptist High School Ijagbo Kwara State.
Okin foam offers the maximum comfort quality product made from the latest plant machinery and technical knowhow. Its products are quality pillow, mattress, and cushion of various sizes.
3.4 THE FACTORS FOR THE GROWTH OF OKIN FOAM INDUSTRIAL LIMITED,
OFFA.
The first notable factor for its growth was the quality of her products. Okin foam produces high quality products to be sought for all over the country. This huge demands however affect the profit made from it positively, and was used in the development and comfortability of households in the country. The raw materials used in its production are got easily from abroad through the state government support. The Government assisted the company in purchasing foreign exchange and makes her raw materials importation quicker, by discouraging any process which could hinder their importation. The availability of raw materials needed could also be said to be one of the factors that enhanced the growth of the company and the establishment of the Okin Malt drink. xxvii

3.5 OKIN MALT
Okin Malt commenced in 1992. It should be noted that this product was been produced initially by Noble Beer Kwara Breweries Limited, Ijagbo Offa, Kwara State
(State Breweries). Though it was the State that established it, but after privatization in 1992, it became a partial property of the Adesoye Holding, with about 70% of the shares of Okin Malt been owned by Adesoye Holdings. Okin Malt also shared the same historical origin as the rest of the Adesoye Holdings, because they were all owned by Chief E.O. Adesoye. The company maintained a non-discriminatory employment policy. No fewer than three hundred workers were employed since he started operation.
The company organized “plant training courses” for its workers through the support of the Industrial Training Fund (I.T.F.) and at the same time, utilizes the courses conducted by the Management Training Organization (M.T.O.).
All these training programmes are meant to develop the skill of the employees. This move encouraged easy production of their product. The availability of the raw materials, is therefore as a result of fact that these raw materials are been got locally, this however, added to the quality of Okin Malt.
3.6 NOBLE BEER BREWERIES, OFFA.
The company was established by Kwara State Government, and like Okin Malt, it was during the privatization it became a company under the Adesoye Holdings. The company had its major product as beer. The company became an important in Kwara state and the entire country in general with the quality of beer been produce the company. The company produced qualitative product and this enable the company xxviii

to win both local and international awards. For example, in 1982, Nigeria Standard
Organization gave the company an award for its product as the best beer producing company in Nigeria. The company won the award also in 1984, 1986, 1987, 1988 and
1990 respectively.
4
3.7 THE SOCIO-ECONOMIC CONTRIBUTION OF THE INDUSTRY (BREWING
INDUSTRY)
The brewing industry made an annual financial contribution of N1billion to the coffers of the Federal Government by way of import exercise duties and other taxes.
Noble beer breweries for example made an annual contribution of over N200, 000 to the purse of the Kwara State Government, apart from the federal government import
/ exercise duties and other taxes leveled on her. While agriculture and other allied sectors recorded an average growth of less than 3% annually, the manufacturing sector to which the breweries belong, recorded an annual average of 15% between
1970 and 1984, according to the general view of the brewing industry in Nigeria.
According to a publication of the Beer sectoral group of MAN, 1993 magazine, brewing industry creates direct employment for 30,000 Nigerians and generates indirect employment for 300,000 in other establishment and individuals who are solely dependent on the brewing industries for their livelihood. Noble beer industry however created about 300 employment opportunity to the people of within and outside Offa. About 500 people livelihood depends solely directly or indirectly on this industry. The multiplier effect of brewery operations is a big boost to the National economy. xxix

The gigantic integration programmes embarked upon by the breweries did not only boost food production, but also increased rural employment opportunities, and at the same time provide the much needed industrial raw materials for the breweries. In the process of milling sorghum and maize for example, valuable coproducts will be produced. These included quality flour, edible oil and feed proteins, which can be used by other food industries and animal feed compounders. Noble beer breweries contributed undoubtedly to the socio-economic development of the state and the local government in which it was situated (Offa), through the company reflection on the lives of the community in Offa and the state in general by participating in many community projects. It has several time undertaken road construction activities in the area and had donated financially and hospital equipment to the general (now specialist), and some rural hospitals in the area.
Another area where the breweries have participated very actively is the field of sports sponsorship. The company has a football team known as Noble beer football team, which as once won the Kwara State challenge cup award, and took second on several occasions. The company had also sponsored some social activities in the area such as club week, noble night etc. It could be rightly said that the presence of the Noble Beer Company in Offa is a blessing to the area due to her socio-economic development advantage derived from its establishment.
Nevertheless, the company added more spice to various occasions like house warming, marriage, birthday etc. as the beer became most sought-after in various ceremonies.
3.8 ADESOYE COLLEGE xxx

Adesoye College is a subsidiary of Adesoye Holdings, which was established by
Chief E.O Adesoye in response to the quest for qualitative education in Offa, and it was established in 1986. Adesoye College, a co-educational high-school was situated at no. 1 Igosun road, Offa Kwara state. The founder of Adesoye College has a vision of turning the college to a citadel of learning and to be leader of host of other educational institutions, and this among other factors accounted for the international partnership the college had with University of Sussex, United Kingdom.
The total population of students at Adesoye College as at February 2011 was
487, with the population of both teaching and non-teaching staff being 85. Going by the aforementioned figures, learning process would not be a difficult thing, as each class is of moderate and adequate population of students. It was the vision of the founder to give qualitative education to students, which made him acquire the service of Mr. Bradley Sailes as the principal of the college, who took over from Miss
J. Steward from United States of America.
3.9 FACTORS FOR THE GROWTH OF ADESOYE COLLEGE.
According to the principal Mr. Bradley Sailes , the first factor that assisted the growth of Adesoye College is the zeal to give qualitative education. Adesoye College had produce graduates who have assume leadership position in their various filed of
Studies, and this is as a result of the zeal, love, and position to impact knowledge to the Students by the teachers. Also, the location of the college is also an unelectable factor. The college was situated along Igosun road in Offa, a place known for its calmness and noiselessness characteristics. The land also acquired by the founder of xxxi

the college is a large one, capable of establishing a modern and international college of high standard, and this was a blessing for the success of academic processes in the college.
5
Another important factor was the motivation given to the teachers by the founder. Periodically, teachers at the college are being sent for seminars, workshops etc. in order to be in shape for their latest education trend. Nonetheless, the fact that the college came early enough before other schools and colleges in the area, was another helping factor, as parents send their wards from far and near to
Adesoye College to obtain sound education.
6 xxxii

REFERENCES
1.
Kwara State Magazine, The Achiever, No. 1, Vol. 1, March 1993 P. 30.
2.
O. Aboyade, “Industrial location and Development Policy” Nigeria Journal of
Economic and Social Studies, vol. 10 1968, P. 275.
3.
Interview with Engr. Gbenga Adesoye (51 years), General Manager, Okin
Biscuit Industrial Limited, Offa. 29/03/2011.
4.
The Brewing Industry: A major contributor to Nigeria Development (M.A.N.
Publication) Nigeria: Academy Press Limited Lagos, P. 1.
5.
Interview with Mr. Bradley Sailes (47 years), The Principal Adesoye College
Offa. 21/03/2011.
6.
The Achiever, opcit xxxiii

CHAPTER FOUR
CONCLUSION
4.1 THE IMPORTANCE OF ADESOYE HOLDING IN THE SOCIO-ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT OF OFFA.
Industrialization is a vital factor which influences the growth of Offa. Indeed, the established industries under the Adesoye Holding in Offa contributed immensely to the socio-economic development of the area in various ways. The location and establishment of these industries in Offa reduced the level of unemployment problem in the town. Many unemployed citizens got themselves involved in different kinds of jobs created by Adesoye Holdings. This however, elucidates the employment benefit derived from the industrial establishment in Offa.
1
Companies under the Adesoye Holdings like the Okin Biscuit limited, Adesoye
College, involved themselves in some social activities, such as environmental sanitation exercise, construction of roads, and building of water dams to facilitate water supply for industrial production. Looking critically for instance, Adesoye
College rebuilt the Afelele-Igosun town together. Since it is the only road leading to the company, she undertakes reconstruction process annually especially during the raining season which cause great damage to the road.
In 1990, Chief E.A. Adesoye, the Chairman Adesoye Holding, built Igonna-
Secretariat road, the road which linked Igbonna and Offa town together. The importance of this road is that it leads to his company’s headquarters, which xxxiv

encapsulated the chairman’s residence, company’s guest house, conference centre etc.
Also, the holdings had executed electrification project to enhance the effective production of the companies. For instance, Noble Beer limited Offa, embarked on electrification project, and this led to the development of villages situated around the company; for example, village like Oga-kunrin enjoyed from this gesture. Some social programmes that enhanced unity and progress in the area were sponsored by companies under the holding. They donated generously to the specialist hospitals and local clinics in the area. Some hospital equipment and financial needs of these hospitals and clinics were given out generously. Adesoye
Holdings also assisted in developing the social welfare of the town, for example, motherless babies in Offa, were given assistance. This donation is made annually by this company as their own contribution to the growth and development of Offa. This is particularly done during their various end of the year programs.
2
Adesoye Holdings also promotes educational development in the area. This is done by organizing Interschool’s debates and scholarship to students in Offa. For instance, Adesoye College Offa, and Okin Biscuit limited Offa, jointly sponsored 1989 inter-primary school debates in Offa. Notable also is Offa Students’ Union annual
Summer School, organized by the Offa Students’ in the higher institution, which aims at improving the educational skills of primary and secondary school students, is been sponsored annually by Okin Biscuit limited, Offa.
In order to improve the mental alertness of the primary school pupils, several sporting activities such as table tennis and football competitions in Offa in 1990 and xxxv

1992 respectively. The love and passion the Adesoye Holdings had for sports, made the then manager of Okin biscuit to have a football team, which was named after him “Keshavan F.C.” which had won several competitions in Offa and its environs, and promote peace and harmony among the youths. It should be noted however, that industrial development in Offa through Adesoye Holdings, did not only improve the living standard of people, but also enhance the growth and development of Offa.
Annually, the Adesoye Holdings gave some financial assistance to the local, state and federal government by way of rents, royalties import/exercise duties and other taxes. According to MAN 1993 publication;
Brewing industries made a total contribution of about N1billion to the coffers of the Federal Government by way of import/excise duties and other taxes. Definitely brewing
Industry is a strong pillar of support for the Government’s programmes for speedy economic recovery.
Apart from the financial contribution made by the established companies in
Offa, specifically the Adesoye Holding, also help in capital investment over the years.
This is achieved through savings of part of their incomes either in banks or investment companies. This undoubtedly enhanced the economic development of
Offa Local Government because part of it is used for economic development.
According to MAN publication, xxxvi

The Federal, State and Local Government as well as individuals realise the financial profitabilities of the industries, hence their attraction to substancial equity holdings in a number of them. Even where Governments do not hold equity shares, the companies no doubt boost the economy of the states and Local
Government in which are located, and directly benefit them through employment of labour and payments of rents, rates, taxes and other charges
All these are meant to prove the socio-economic importance of Adesoye Holdings in
Offa her environs.
3
4.2 PROBLEMS ENCOUNTERED BY ADESOYE HOLDINGS
The main problem facing the holding is a lack of sufficient capital to courage high production in order to meet the huge demands of the customers. The capital needed for the effectiveness of companies under the holdings is much, and there is need for governments to lend a helping hand.
4
Also lack of enough raw materials also hindered the growth of industries under Adesoye Holdings. Though some raw materials are locally available, but some imported ones such as chemicals, are not easily available. This is because it takes a very long process before the company could import them. This eventually hindered and delayed production ability, and products from the quick reach of their consumers. More importantly, was the problem of mismanagement on the part of xxxvii

the companies under the holdings. The Chairman of the Adesoye Holdings close down production activities in Okin Biscuit limited as a result of mismanagement in
2009, after sorting out the major problems, the company began operation in 2010.
It is equally important to note that several companies under this holdings like
Noble Brewery Industry, Okin Foam, Labande Cereals, Okin Malts and Okin
Transport, were at the receiving end of these problems, which made them to stop operation till now.
5
Conclusively however, the surviving industries under the holdings like Okin
Biscuit limited, Adesoye College etc. had no doubt live up to expectation. Owing to the socio-economic contribution or importance of the industries under this holding, it will be advantageous if the Federal Government encourages this sector, hence they foster the total economic upliftment of the nation in general. xxxviii

REFERENCES
1.
J.O. Oyebanji, “The industrial landscape of Kwara state”, The Nigerian journal of Economic and Social Studies, 1980, Vol. 22 No. 1, P. 53
2.
OjetundeAboyade, Integrated Economic: A study of developing economics
(Califonia: Addison-Wesley Publishers Ltd. March 1993), P. 404
3.
The Brewing industry: A major contributor to Nigeria’s development – (MAN
Publication), Nigeria academy Press limited Lagos), P. 2
4.
The Archiever:Kwara state Magazine, No. 1, Vol. 1, March 1993, P. 32
5.
The Archiever, Opcit, March 1995. xxxix

BIBLIOGRAPHY
1. PRIMARY SOURCES
ORAL INTERVIEW
SERIAL NAME OF SEX OCCUPATION
NUMBER
1.
INFORMANTS
TIAMIYU ADBAYO
2.
M BLACKSMITHER 50
OLUSHOLA HASSAN M WEAVER 45
AGE DATE
18/03/2011
14/03/2011
3.
4.
GBENGA ADESOYE
BRADLEY SAILES
M
M
ENGINEER
EDUCATIONIST
51
47
29/03/2011
21/03/2011
B. MAGAZINES
1. The Achiever (Kwara State Magazine) No. 1, vol. 1, March 1993.
2. The Achiever (Kwara State Magazine) “Okin Biscuit Limited Offa” No. 1, vol. 3,
March 1995.
3. E. Mogaji, “Industrial growth in Offa”, Ijakadi (March, 2009)
4. K. Ojokure, “Industrial Crisis in Offa”, Offa M’ojo (October,2008)
2. SECONDARY SOURCES xl

1.
B.T. Oyetunde, The Brewing Industry: A major contributor to Nigeria
Development, Nigeria, M.A.N. Publications, 1997.
2.
J.B. Olafimihan, Itan Ofa, Ibadan: Abriprina press Ltd 1967
3.
J.F.A. Ajayi, S.A. Akinloye, Yoruba in the Nineteenth Century, in Obaro Ikimi;
Groundwork of Nigerian History, Heinemann Educational Books Nig. Limited.
4.
J.O. Oyebanji, The Industrial Land Scope of Kwara State, The Nigerian Journal of Economic and Social Studies, 1980.
5.
K.B.C. Onuubiko, History of West Africa, Nigeria: Africana-Fep Publishers
Limited, 1975. B.T. Oyetunde.
6.
Lamb Venice, West African Weaving, London, Gerald Duck worth and co. Ltd.
1961.
7.
O. Aboyade, Industrial Location and Development Policy, Nigerian Journal of
Economic and Social Studies, 1968.
8.
Ojetunde Aboyade, Integrated Economic: A case study of developing
Economics, California: Adisson-Wesley Publishers Limited, 1983.
9.
O.E. Babatunde, Growth of Industries in the Western Nigeria, Ibadan: Ojebode press limited, 1982.
10.
Okeshola Toyin A., The growth of industry in Offa/Oyun Local Government,
1960 – 1990, Ibadan: Oluade press, 1995.
11.
P. Amauri Talbort, The people of Southern Nigeria, London: Humphrey Milford,
1926.
12.
Prince Christine, Made in West Africa, London: Studies Vista, 1971. xli

13.
Samuel Johnson, The History of the Yoruba, London, Lowe & Porydone,
London, 1921.
14.
www.internation
al-schoolfriends.com/Adesoyecollege-offa-Nigeria-11947show.html.
3. TERTIARY SOURCES
1.
Macmillan, Nation Atlas, Ibadan: Macmillan educational press limited, 1978. xlii