OONI CELEBRATES 52ND BIRTHDAY; SEEKS PEACE AND PROGRESS FOR NIGERIA . (PHOTO).

OONI CELEBRATES 52ND BIRTHDAY;  SEEKS PEACE AND PROGRESS FOR NIGERIA 

The Ooni of Ife, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja- II, has celebrated his 52nd birthday, calls for sustained peace, unity and progress in Nigeria.

In a statement by the  the Director of Media and Public Affairs, Ooni’s Palace, Otunba Moses Olafare, the Ooni, who clocked 52  reaffirmed his commitment to promoting Yoruba cultural heritage, fostering national unity and supporting initiatives aimed at improving the welfare of Nigerians.

Ooni also called on Nigerians, irrespective of their ethnic, religious and political differences, to embrace peaceful coexistence, mutual  understanding and collective responsibility as essential ingredients for national development.

The Monarch emphasised the need for citizens to work together towards building a country where peace, justice, economic prosperity and equal opportunities remain priorities.

He described his birthday as an opportunity to reflect on the importance of purposeful leadership, service to humanity and the preservation of cultural values.

According to Ooni Ogunwusi, “Peace and unity remain central to my responsibilities as the Ooni of Ife. I will continue to use my position and influence to strengthen relationships among communities, promote peaceful coexistence and celebrate the cultural diversity that makes Nigeria unique.

I believe that our diversity should be a source of strength rather than division. I therefore urge Nigerians, irrespective of their ethnic, religious and political differences, to embrace mutual understanding, respect and cooperation in the collective pursuit of a united and prosperous nation.

“Throughout my reign, I have remained committed to promoting Yoruba culture and traditions while projecting the historical significance of Ile-Ife as the ancestral home. I will continue to support initiatives that preserve our heritage, strengthen cultural diplomacy and promote understanding among people across Nigeria, Africa and the global community."

The Ooni said since he ascended the ancient throne he continued to support initiatives focused on cultural preservation, youth development, entrepreneurship, community development and humanitarian service. He noted that he strongly believe that traditional institutions have important roles to play in fostering peace, inspiring development and complementing efforts by government and other stakeholders to improve the lives of our people.

“In my capacity as the Permanent Chairman of the Osun State Council of Obas and Co-Chairman of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria, I remain committed to promoting dialogue, strengthening traditional institutions and encouraging collaboration among leaders for the benefit of our communities and the country at large."

At international level the Ooni said he also recognise the importance of engaging with traditional rulers across Africa and members of the Yoruba diaspora to strengthen the cultural connections, promote shared heritage and create opportunities for meaningful partnerships that will benefit present and future generations. It concludes.