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The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi
Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke and ex-Lagos State Governor, Babatunde Fashola (SAN) on Thursday hailed the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi’s efforts towards the preservation of Yoruba cultural heritage.
Adeleke and Fashola spoke at events held in Ile-Ife, Osun State, to commemorate the 50th birthday of Oba Ogunwusi.
Fashola, who spoke before he commissioned Ojaja Cinema located on the premises of Ife Grand Resort, as part of the activities marking Ooni’s birthday, described Oba Ogunwusi as a “pride of the Yoruba race,” noting that the monarch’s pursuit of unity among Oduduwa descendants globally has been unprecedented.
“Kabiyesi, within nine years of your ascension to the great Oduduwa throne has brought glory to the race. Your pursuit of unity among Oduduwa descendants across the world.
“We your subjects are proud of you, we love and appreciate your dedication to preserving Yoruba cultural heritage. Kabiyesi, we love you,” Fashola said.
Coordinating the cutting of the birthday cake, Adeleke at the event attended by Osemawe of Ondo, Oba Victor Adesimbo; Elegushi of Ikate, Oba Saheed Ademola; Oniru of Iruland, Oba Abdulwasiu Omogbolahan; Olowu-Kuta of Kuta, Osun State, Oba Adekunle Oyelude, among others, said Oba Ogunwusi has demonstrated intense passion for the development of Nigeria and welfare of the vast youthful populace.
He also commended the royal father for working hard for the promotion of Yoruba culture.
In his remarks at the commissioning of Ojaja Cinema, Oba Ogunwusi said, “My direct interaction with young Nigerians particularly on our campuses reveals to me that the country has not fully tapped into their potentials.
“I am glad that our Afrobeat music has become an asset across Africa and beyond but I am confident that we can do more in the global entertainment arena, especially by telling our stories through cinema and films.
“Just imagine the number of employment that can be generated from a successful movie presentation, musical display and its like. These are the advantages associated with the entertainment industry, it will equally boost the country’s economy and generate huge foreign exchange.”
