Vice President Kashim Shettima has demanded a more united Nigeria saying that the nation’s multicultural diversity should be seen as our source of strength and not division.
Shettima said that the administration of President Bola Tinubu recognised the roles of traditional institutions in navigating the intricacies of the country’s diversity and would therefore always prioritise activities that are designed to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of all the tribes in the country.
He spoke on Saturday during the 37th annual Akesan Day held at the Christ Apostolic Grammar School, Iperu Remo, the hometown of the Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun.
The event also had in attendance the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abass, Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Governor Yahaya Bello (Kogi), Governor AbdulRahaman Abdulrasaq (Kwara), former Ogun State Governor, Olusegun Osoba; the Chairman, Senate Committee on Appropriations and Senator representing Ogun West, Senator Olamilekan Adeola, popularly called Yayi, among others
Shettima revealed that the commitment as articulated by Tinubu to ensure positive transformation in the lives of Nigerians stands firm and would work round the clock to achieve these goals.
He said that festival like Akesan Day which seeks to foster unity and progress of the Iperu Remo community and the country at large, remains commendable for helping to strengthen national cohesion while also serving as a rallying point for greater development.
The Akesan Festival provides opportunities to reiterate the commitment of Tinubu to give priority to our traditional institutions in navigating the intricacies of our diversity
The VP said, “This festival like the one before, seeks the unity of the country. Ogun State has always been a source of celebration of enduring cultural heritage and values that enhance unity and development.
“We are here to thank you for reminding us of the roles of sociology and economics in cultural celebration in nation-building. Our diversity is a source of strength and not division. It is a testimony to our adaptability as a people.
“In celebrating our culture, we are celebrating our identity and pride. We are showcasing our richness to the world and we are urging them to be part of our hospitality.
“Today let us learn from the people of Iperu Remo the spirit of cooperation and determination together, hand in hand let us continue to work for a brighter future and the greatness of the country, community to community, culture to culture, state to state and region to region”.
Abiodun, while speaking at the event, said that his administration would continue to build on his achievements to make life far better for the residents of the state.
Abiodun described this year’s Akesan Day celebration as a double celebration for him having won his re-election case at the Appeal Court in Lagos State on Friday, saying that he could only pay back the support and cooperation his government had so far received by pursuing projects and policies that will further uplift the well being of the people.
Source: Punch
