Youth Minister Olawande redesigns Deji of Akure’s Palace

By Boye Oyeyemi

The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, has renovated and redesigned the entrance of the palace of the Deji of Akure, Ondo State, as part of efforts to preserve the town’s cultural heritage.

The intervention was commended by the traditional ruler, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, who described the project as a significant contribution to preserving the historical identity of the Akure Kingdom.

The monarch spoke during the inauguration of the redesigned palace entrance, undertaken by Olawande with the support of the 10th Anniversary Coronation Committee.

While commending the minister for the initiative, Aladelusi urged prominent Akure indigenes, government officials and corporate organisations to support efforts to preserve the town’s historical and cultural landmarks.

He said the responsibility of protecting Akure’s heritage should not be left to government alone, adding that collective support was needed to sustain the town’s cultural identity for future generations.

Speaking at the event, Olawande said his decision to support the project was motivated by the historical importance of the palace, which he described as a symbol of the identity, traditions and history of the Akure people.

According to the minister, preserving the palace required more than verbal appreciation of cultural heritage, noting that the redesign was intended to provide an environment befitting the historic institution while retaining its cultural character.

The palace, which has housed generations of Dejis, is recognised for its historical, architectural and cultural significance and was declared a national historical monument in 1990.