The University of Ibadan played host to an esteemed assembly of national leaders and Yoruba cultural figures on Monday, September 23, 2024, during the 12th Yoruba Youth Leadership Summit.
The event, held in conjunction with the 2024 Yoruba Day celebrations, honored veteran actor Chief (Dr) Lere Paimo, MFR, also known as Eda Onileola, on his 85th birthday, and Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on her 64th birthday.
The summit attracted prominent figures from across Nigeria, including representatives of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos, Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun, and Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola, Minister of Marine and Blue Economy. Attendees included notable personalities such as Archbishop Ayo Ladigbolu, Alhaji Tanko Yakassai, founding member of the Arewa Consultative Forum, and former Senator Ayo Adeseun.
The discussions during the event focused on the need to preserve Nigeria’s unity, with the gathering condemning recent calls for military takeovers and secessionist movements.
The leaders stressed the sanctity of Nigeria’s unity, advocating for a return to the parliamentary or regional system of government.
They maintained that such a system would promote healthy competition among regions and lower the cost of governance, reflecting the successes of Nigeria’s past.
Cultural performances, including a presentation by the Itsekiri Cultural Troupe, added to the vibrant atmosphere as participants celebrated Yoruba heritage while affirming their commitment to a unified Nigeria.
This high-profile event, chaired by Archbishop Ayo Ladigbolu and attended by a broad spectrum of dignitaries, reinforced the importance of unity and national cohesion while paying tribute to the legacies of Chief Lere Paimo and Senator Oluremi Tinubu.
