Itesiwaju Local Government was established on December 4, 1996, as part of a major administrative restructuring by the Federal Military Government under General Sanni Abacha. This restructuring initiative introduced an additional 183 local governments across Nigeria, expanding the number of local governments in the entire federation to 774. Itesiwaju was among these newly established local governments, designed to foster closer governance to the grassroots and enhance administrative efficiency.

Located 40 kilometers away from Iseyin, the headquarter of the parent local government from which it was carved out, Itesiwaju Local Government has its administrative headquarters in Otu. This demarcation was part of the broader effort to ensure that local governance could be more responsive to the needs of its populace by having administrative operations within reachable distances for its constituents.

The choice of the name “Itesiwaju” carries significant cultural and aspirational weight for the community. Unlike other local governments that may adopt names based on geographical features, acronyms, or principal towns, Itesiwaju’s name is deeply rooted in the Yoruba language, meaning “progress” or “onward movement.” This nomenclature reflects the community’s collective desire for the progressive development of their area, underlining the importance of a name that resonates with the aspirations and beliefs of the people.

Itesiwaju Local Government is a vibrant and diverse community primarily inhabited by Yoruba people. However, it is also a melting pot of cultures, hosting individuals from various ethnic backgrounds such as Hausa, Fulani, Igbo, Idoma, and Egede. This diversity is further enriched by the presence of nationals from other African countries, including Ghanaians, people from Cotonou, and Togolese. The economic life of the local government is robust, with residents engaging in a wide range of occupations from cattle rearing and farming to mining and various commercial activities. This economic diversity not only contributes to the local government’s growth but also fosters a sense of unity among its inhabitants, despite their varied cultural backgrounds.

In conclusion, Itesiwaju Local Government represents a microcosm of Nigeria’s diversity and its potential for growth and progress. Its establishment not only facilitated more effective local governance but also instantiated a vision of progression that deeply resonates with the ethos of its people. Through collective efforts in agriculture, commerce, and mining, the local government continues to stride toward the realization of its name – onwards, toward progress.