The Permanent Chairman of the Southern Nigerian Traditional Rulers Council (SNTRC), Arole Oodua Olofin Adimula and the Natural Head of the Oduduwa race worldwide, the Ooni of Ife, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja II, has commended the Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, for his leadership and commitment to the development of the state, while fondly recalling his memorable National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) experience in the state.
In a statement by the Director of Media and Public Affairs, Ooni’s Palace, Otunba Moses Olafare said the Ooni who is also the Co-Chairman of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria (NCTRN) spoke on Monday at his Ile Oodua palace in Ile-Ife, Osun State, while receiving a delegation from the Benue State Government led by the Deputy Governor, Mr. Samuel Ode.
The delegation, which also included the Deputy Chief of Staff to the Governor of Benue State, Barr. Musa Sulaiman Ujor, was at the palace to formally invite the Ooni to serve as the Royal Father of the Day during the state’s 50th anniversary celebration.
Speaking during the visit, Deputy Governor Ode said he was representing Governor Hyacinth Alia to convey the government’s invitation to the revered monarch ahead of the week-long celebration scheduled to hold from June 22 to June 27, 2026.
He explained that although Benue State was created on February 3, 1976, activities marking the golden jubilee, initially planned for February this year, were postponed due to prevailing security challenges.
According to him, Governor Alia holds the Ooni in very high regard and considers him as an Africa’s most influential traditional ruler whose contributions to national unity, cultural promotion and youth development have earned him widespread admiration.
“The Governor specifically directed that this invitation be delivered personally because of the immense respect he has for His Imperial Majesty. We have continued to witness his impactful leadership, advocacy for peace and cultural renaissance across Nigeria and beyond,” Ode said.
Responding, the Ooni expressed gratitude to Governor Alia and the people of Benue State for the honour, describing the governor as a remarkable leader whose transition from the clergy into politics has inspired many Nigerians.
“I have tremendous respect for Governor Hyacinth Alia. He remains the only reverend that become a political force. He successfully transformed into a major political force while remaining committed to service, integrity and the welfare of his people,” the Ooni said.
The Ooni further used the occasion to reflect on his time in Benue State as a corps member, describing the experience as one of the most memorable periods of his youth.
According to him, the warmth, hospitality and generosity shown to him by the people of Benue during his service year left an indelible mark on his life.
“Benue occupies a special place in my heart. During my NYSC days in the state, the people welcomed me with open arms and treated me as one of their own. Their hospitality, kindness and sense of community remain unforgettable to me till today,” he stated.
The Ooni lauded the people of Benue for their resilience and contributions to Nigeria’s agricultural sector, describing the state as a strategic pillar in the nation’s quest for food security.
He also commended the efforts of Governor Alia’s administration in tackling developmental challenges and promoting peace.
Ooni Ogunwusi accepted the invitation to participate in the golden jubilee celebration and assured the delegation of his full support for the event.
“I am deeply honoured by this invitation and I will participate wholeheartedly in this historic celebration. Benue State has every reason to celebrate its rich heritage, achievements and the resilience of its people over the last five decades,” he said.
The Ooni concluded the meeting by offering ancestral prayers and royal blessings for Governor Alia, the government and people of Benue State, praying for enduring peace, prosperity and greater development as the state marks its 50th anniversary.