President Bola Tinubu on Friday received the newly installed 46th Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, at the State House in Abuja.
The Alaafin was accompanied by his wife, Abiwumi, and a delegation of other traditional rulers from Oyo state.
Tinubu congratulated the Alaafin over his ascendency to the throne, assuring the monarch of his prayers and support.
The president said Owoade’s rise to the throne, much like his own election as the country’s president, is ordained by divine will.
Tinubu added that his administration believes that traditional institutions are integral to the country’s development and called for more support in implementing policies that directly impact people’s livelihoods.
“It is a great joy for me and a great honour. Your ascendancy to the throne of your fathers is historic. It is the will of God and the heart of the people,” Tinubu was quoted in a statement issued by Bayo Onanuga, presidential spokesperson.
“I am following up on your foresight for development, your humility, and the fact that you uphold the traditions of your people.
“The inherited tradition is the making of the Almighty God. Your ascendancy to the throne – like my becoming a president – is the divine will of the Almighty God.
“The peace and stability of our nation requires inclusiveness. This job is not one you can do alone. We have to pull ourselves together to build a nation of prosperity.
“Our priority is still education and Medicare. We want to uplift education and cultural values. Our door is open for participation.”
The president said sons of the Oyo kingdom serving in his office are doing exceptionally well, including Victor Adeleke, state chief of protocol, and Nurudeen Alowonle Yusuf, the aide-de-camp.
On his part, the Alaafin assured Tinubu that the Oyo traditional council is ready to support the president to achieve his mandate for the country.
