Osun State governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to harnessing the state’s rich cultural heritage for economic growth and increased revenue generation.
Speaking at a reception marking the installation of Professor Adewale Oladipo as the Sooko Molodo of the Ogbooru ruling house in Ile-Ife, Adeleke said preserving Osun’s culture and traditions remains central to his government’s development agenda.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to promote traditional festivals on the global stage to attract tourists, stimulate local businesses, and boost the state’s internally generated revenue.
He described the installation of Oladipo as well deserved, noting that his passion for Yoruba culture, distinguished academic career, and commitment to public service made him worthy of the traditional honour.
Adeleke expressed confidence that the new Sooko Molodo will deploy his wealth of experience in academia and politics to advance the development of Ile-Ife and strengthen its cultural institutions.
The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, who performed the traditional installation rites, urged Professor Oladipo to regard his new position as a call to selfless service, peace-building, and the preservation of Yoruba heritage.
The monarch also charged the new traditional titleholder to promote the values of the Oduduwa race globally, while fostering unity and cultural pride among the Yoruba people.
In his remarks, Professor Oladipo expressed gratitude for the honour bestowed on him, pledging to dedicate himself to the service of humanity and the continued development of Ile-Ife.
He called on indigenes to support initiatives that will accelerate economic development, promote industrialisation, and strengthen unity in the community.