The Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mr. Idris Aregbe, on Tuesday, paid a courtesy visit to the Alaafin of Oyo, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, at his palace in Oyo, ahead of the Monarch’s 50th birthday celebration.
Speaking during the visit, Aregbe extended warm felicitations on behalf of the Lagos State Government, describing the monarch’s golden jubilee as not just a personal milestone, but a symbolic celebration of cultural resilience, royal heritage, and enduring leadership.
“This visit is not just to honour Kabiyesi on the occasion of his 50th birthday, but also to strengthen cultural diplomacy between Lagos and Oyo. There is a shared heritage between our people, and this is an opportunity to build on it,” Aregbe noted.
He emphasised that the meeting provided an important platform to reflect on the evolving role of monarchs in the 21st century, particularly in shaping narratives around culture, identity, and tradition in modern governance and societal development.
The Special Adviser added that his interaction with Oba Owoade was deeply insightful, describing the Alaafin as a custodian of profound wisdom whose knowledge of Yoruba history and traditional institutions remains invaluable. “Kabiyesi is a wellspring of wisdom. His guidance and vision for the preservation of African heritage truly reflect the essence of royalty,” he said.
Aregbe further reiterated Lagos State’s commitment under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration to foster inter-state collaborations that promote arts, tourism, and cultural exchange while preserving Nigeria’s historical values for future generations.