President Bola Tinubu on Friday called for deeper collaboration between the federal government and traditional institutions to support policies that directly impact the lives of Nigerians.
The President made the call when he hosted the 46th Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade I, and his wife, Abiwumi, alongside a delegation of traditional rulers from Oyo State at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
Tinubu congratulated the Alaafin on his emergence, describing his ascension to the throne as divinely ordained.
“It is a great joy for me and a great honour. Your ascendancy to the throne of your fathers is historic. It is the will of God and the heart of the people,” he said.
The President praised the monarch’s foresight, humility and commitment to preserving tradition, stating, “The inherited tradition is the making of the Almighty God. Your ascendancy to the throne – like my becoming a president – is the divine will of the Almighty God.”
He further noted that the challenges faced on the path to leadership are part of the preparation for service and commended the Oyo traditional council for a smooth transition following the death of Oba Lamidi Adeyemi on April 22, 2022.
“I am happy that you have shown character and discipline and uplifted your people’s name, values and culture, even when you were in Canada. I am glad you have become a hope of sustaining the Yoruba race,” Tinubu added.
He emphasised the need for inclusiveness in nation-building and promised to continue working with traditional institutions.
“The peace and stability of our nation requires inclusiveness. This job is not one you can do alone. We have to pull ourselves together to build a nation of prosperity. Our priority is still education and Medicare. We want to uplift education and cultural values. Our door is open for participation.”
Tinubu also acknowledged the contributions of Oyo indigenes in his administration, including Victor Adeleke, the state chief of protocol and colonel Nurudeen Yusuf, his Aide-de-Camp and king-designate of Ilemonaland in Oyun Local Government Area of Kwara State, which traces its heritage to the Oyo Kingdom.
In his response, Oba Owoade praised the President’s leadership and reaffirmed the traditional council’s support.
“Today, I speak not just as the custodian of culture and tradition but as a voice for my people, who are deeply honoured by the audience you have granted us here at the heart of the national leadership.
“Your gracious reception is more than protocol. It is a mark of your character, statesmanship and enduring regard for the traditional institutions.
“The people of Oyo remember your journey as a man who rose through the crucible of political struggle with unmatched courage and charity. You won many hearts as an activist, strategist, bridge builder and now as the nation’s foremost leader.”
The monarch said Nigerians were hopeful for renewal under Tinubu’s leadership.
“Nigeria looks up to you, not only for leadership but for restoration. For a new vision rooted in justice, equity and inclusive progress. It is in that spirit that I have come to seek your collaboration. Oyo is ready, Yoruba are ready, and Nigerians are ready,” he said.
He commended the President’s economic reforms, infrastructure projects, social welfare efforts and security interventions, saying, “We understand that national transformation is not by government alone. It is built when ancient wisdom meets modern governance. When institutions, old and new, work hand-in-hand.”
