Owa coronation: Tinubu urges collaboration between traditional institutions, govt

By Deborah Oladejo, Osogbo

President Bola Tinubu has called for deeper collaboration between traditional institutions and governments at all levels to deliver meaningful change in the country.

Speaking on Friday at the 41st coronation ceremony of the Owa Obokun Adimula of Ijesaland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Clement Adesuyi Haastrup, Ajimoko III, President Tinubu—represented by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Gboyega Oyetola—admonished traditional rulers to work hand-in-hand with governments to confront the challenges facing the country across all sectors.

He said, “In line with the Renewed Hope Agenda, our administration is fully committed to supporting the aspirations of all communities, including the great people of Ijesaland. Through ongoing federal initiatives in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and agriculture, we are working to uplift lives and expand opportunities across the nation.”

Describing the coronation of the Owa Obokun Adimula as a reaffirmation of centuries of tradition, wisdom, and dignity that define the soul of Ijesaland, the President stated that the throne is not merely a seat of royal power but a sacred custodian of the values, aspirations, and spiritual heritage of the Ijesa people—a beacon that lights the path of continuity from ancestors to future generations.

“Your Majesty, I pay homage to your personal journey of service, leadership, and wisdom. You embody the noble virtues that this throne demands—humility, courage, intellect, and compassion. I am confident that under your reign, the cultural splendour of Ijesaland will not only be preserved but elevated to new heights. I charge Your Majesty to continue to be a pillar of unity and a bridge between the past and the promise of tomorrow. Our nation yearns for peace, equity, and progress, and traditional rulers like yourself have a vital role to play in achieving this vision. May your palace be a sanctuary of justice, dialogue, and service.

“We recognize the resourcefulness of this land and will continue to partner with traditional institutions to ensure that development is inclusive and enduring.”

In his speech, Governor Ademola Adeleke reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the overall development of Ijesaland, assuring that far-reaching mining reforms are being implemented to tackle illegal mining and combat environmental degradation.

“I want to assure Kabiyesi that our administration is open to further public-private partnerships in all areas. We are ready to collaborate with the new monarch for the development of Ijesaland. As we are developing Ijesaland, we are replicating similar feats in Ifeland, Osogboland, Iwoland, Igbomina land, and Edeland. Our government is spreading development to all corners of Osun State,” the governor said.