KEY POINTS
- Governor Adeleke and Fashola praised Ooni Ogunwusi for preserving Yoruba culture.
- Ooni’s efforts in supporting youth development and promoting entertainment were highlighted.
- Ojaja Cinema was commissioned as part of the activities marking the Ooni’s 50th birthday.
At events marking the Ooni’s 50th birthday in Ile-Ife, Osun State, former Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola and Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke praised the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, for his important contributions to preserving Yoruba cultural heritage, emphasizing the monarch’s dedication to bringing the Oduduwa descendants together globally and promoting cultural pride.
Fashola hails Ooni’s efforts for unity
Before opening the Ojaja Cinema at Ife Grand Resort, Fashola spoke and referred to Oba Ogunwusi as a Yoruba pride emblem.
He commended the king for his persistent efforts to bring Oduduwa descendants worldwide together. Fashola declared, “Kabiyesi, you have brought great glory to the Yoruba race in just nine years, and we are proud of you.”
According to Punch, he also emphasized the value of the monarch’s influence on the next generation and praised the Ooni’s commitment to conserving Yoruba culture and legacy.
Adeleke highlights Ooni’s youth development efforts
Governor Adeleke, who oversaw the birthday cake cutting, highlighted Oba Ogunwusi’s dedication to Nigeria’s progress, especially in helping the country’s young people.
Adeleke praised the Ooni for his ongoing efforts to promote Yoruba culture during the occasion, which was attended by a number of traditional rulers, including the Osemawe of Ondo and the Oniru of Iruland.
Adeleke also highlighted the Ooni’s noteworthy contributions to the entertainment sector, particularly in terms of inspiring young Nigerians.
“Your commitment to fostering Nigeria’s youth and providing them with opportunities in the entertainment industry is admirable,” Adeleke remarked.
Ooni emphasizes youth potential in entertainment
Oba Ogunwusi emphasized the unrealized potential of Nigerian youth, particularly in the entertainment sector, in his remarks during the Ojaja Cinema’s commissioning.
He cited the popularity of Afrobeat music around the world as evidence of Nigeria’s cultural influence and underlined that using cinema and video to tell stories may lead to greater chances.
The Ooni noted that the entertainment sector has the potential to boost Nigeria’s economy and create jobs. “We can use cinema to tell our stories, which will generate foreign exchange, jobs, and economic growth,” he stated.
