His Royal Majesty, Oba Kabiru Adewale Shotobi, the Ayangbure of Ikorodu Division and 1st Permanent Vice Chairman of the Lagos State Council of Obas, hosted a distinguished assembly of the Lagos State Ijebu Obas and the Yoruba Oba Forum (YOF) at his palace in Ikorodu on wednesday, November 27, 2024.
The meeting served as a platform for collaboration and deliberation on key developmental issues, emphasizing the integration of traditional leadership with governmental efforts to foster progress in the region.
The gathering brought together esteemed traditional rulers under the banners of the Lagos State Ijebu Obas and Yoruba Oba Forum to discuss pressing national concerns and chart strategies for strengthening the synergy between traditional institutions and government authorities.
Key discussions centred on fostering unity, preserving Yoruba culture, and enhancing the proactive involvement of traditional leaders in governance and community development.
The event attracted prominent Ijebu monarchs and Yoruba Obas from across Lagos State, along with notable dignitaries, including: Bldr. Adeola Banjo, Executive Chairman of Ikorodu North LCDA; Hon. Wasiu Adesina, Executive Chairman of Ikorodu Local Government; Asipa Kaoli Olusanya, Former Commissioner for Agriculture, Lagos State; Otunba Ayodele Elesho, Former Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Various distinguished Obas representing their domains in Lagos State
According to HRM Oba Kabiru Adewale Shotobi, the meeting underscored the critical role of traditional rulers in grassroots development and community leadership.
He emphasized the necessity of a closer partnership between traditional institutions and governmental bodies to ensure stability, progress, and effective governance across communities.
Oba Shotobi highlighted the importance of integrating traditional rulers into governance frameworks, citing their wisdom, influence, and proximity to grassroots issues as invaluable resources in addressing local challenges.
Discussions at the forum included strategies to enhance the involvement of traditional leaders in policy-making processes related to community development, welfare programs, and security initiatives.
A central theme of the gathering was the preservation and promotion of Yoruba traditions and values amidst modernization.
The monarchs deliberated on initiatives to sustain Yoruba cultural practices, language, and heritage, stressing the importance of instilling cultural pride in the younger generation.
Proposals included introducing programs in schools and communities to teach Yoruba history, traditions, and language.
In addition to cultural matters, the monarchs discussed key developmental priorities such as infrastructure improvement, youth empowerment through skill acquisition and education, and boosting economic opportunities within their domains.
They collectively agreed that investing in the youth is crucial for the prosperity of the Yoruba nation and committed to collaborative efforts in creating avenues for development.
The meeting concluded with a unanimous resolution to strengthen partnerships with the Lagos State Government.
The monarchs reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring that traditional institutions play a vital role in governance and community development.
They also pledged to align their efforts with modern governance structures to foster a harmonious and prosperous society while preserving the cultural identity of the Yoruba people.
This landmark event not only demonstrated the unity among Lagos State traditional rulers but also underscored the critical role of collaboration between traditional and governmental authorities in building a vibrant and progressive region.
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