The Reformed Ogboni Fraternity (ROF) has commemorated its 110th anniversary with a call for the promotion of love, cultural values, and integrity as essential pillars for fostering national unity and development.
The milestone event, held in Lagos on Wednesday, brought together members of the fraternity from within and outside Nigeria.
Chairman of the event’s planning committee, Chief Francis Inegberiki, emphasised that love, culture, and integrity are vital for advancing national development. He urged public office holders to maintain the highest standards of integrity to earn and sustain public trust.
“All faiths recognise the supremacy of one universal God who advocates love for one another,” Inegberiki stated. “Our esteemed organisation is grounded on the principles of love, culture, and integrity, guided by the universal law: treat others as you would like to be treated.”
He highlighted the fraternity’s inclusive nature, noting that its membership spans diverse faiths, ethnic groups, and cultural backgrounds. “This celebration is not only about reflecting on our rich past but also envisioning a brighter future for our nation,” he added.
The chairman also called on ROF members to contribute positively to their communities, aiming to dispel any misconceptions about the fraternity.
Delivering the keynote address, Prof. Joseph Abugu (SAN) underscored the importance of faith in a universal God and love for one another as prerequisites for national unity and progress. Speaking on the topic, “Reformed Ogboni Fraternity: Exploring Culture and Faith for National Unity,” Abugu stressed that understanding one’s culture could enhance comprehension of religious scriptures, whether Islamic or Christian.
“No culture promotes discrimination or dishonesty,” he stated. “The fraternity’s 110 years of existence stand as a testament to its resilience, ideals, and commitment to fostering harmony within communities. The strength of our diversity should be leveraged to enrich the larger society through enlightenment initiatives that promote cultural values and unity.”
Prof. Abugu described culture as the foundation of societal identity, shaping behaviors and interactions. He urged Nigerians to embrace the country’s diverse cultures, traditions, and languages as strengths rather than weaknesses.
“Nigeria is a nation blessed with an array of cultures. Each ethnic group contributes to the richness of our national identity. This diversity is not a barrier but a bridge connecting us all,” he said.
The Reformed Ogboni Fraternity, established in 1914 by Anglican cleric Ven. Thomas Adesina Ogunbiyi in Lagos, was envisioned to create a global community of trust, love, and truth. Its guiding principle is rooted in the Golden Rule: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”
Highlighting the event, notable figures, including the Esama of Benin and founder of Igbinedion University, Chief Gabriel Igbinedion, received awards for their contributions to the fraternity’s growth and ideals.
The anniversary celebration concluded with a renewed commitment by members to uphold the values of love, culture, and integrity in fostering unity and national progress.
