Vice President Kashim Shettima has emphasised the importance of service to humanity and peaceful coexistence in Nigeria, urging political leaders to project the beauty of the nation’s cultural diversity.
He spoke yesterday as a special guest of honour during the conferment of the chieftaincy title of Asiwaju of Ijebuland on an industrialist and philanthropist, Dr. Sulaiman Adebola Adegunwa, at a ceremony held in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State.
Senator Shettima conveyed greetings from President Bola Tinubu, describing the new Asiwaju as “a worthy son of the soil, a leader committed to entrenching peaceful coexistence across the length and breadth of the nation.”
Celebrating the new Asiwaju of Ijebuland, the vice president in a statement by his spokesman, Stanley Nkwocha, said; “The event we are all gathered here to witness is not just one that celebrates the intertwining between leadership and culture but indeed the essence of humanity which is service.
“As beautiful as we all look in the various attires we are putting on, so is the beauty in our diversity, so is the beauty of our heritage, so is the beauty of our cultures which bellies in our age-long tradition.”
He urged Dr. Adegunwa to see his new role as “a call to service, a reminder that what we owe this country is a sacrifice for love, tolerance and total dedication.”
Recounting Adegunwa’s inspiring story of success, the Vice President noted that “the story of Baba is successful yet very motivational; that for every man that strives to succeed there is no way the doors would not be open.
In his remarks, Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, congratulated Dr. Adegunwa, recounting his journey from a small photo studio to investments in banking, real estate, agriculture, and education.
The Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayọde Adetọna II, who conferred the chieftaincy title, spoke through his Chief of Staff, commending Dr. Adegunwa and his wife for distinguishing themselves in character, their fields of endeavour, and contributions to the community’s economic well-being.