Mr Sunday Dare, the Minister of Youth and Sports Development has congratulated the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi on his 50th coronation anniversary.
Dare,in a statement issued by his Media Office on Thursday, described the Alaafin as a unifier and custodian of a rich cultural value.
Reports state that Oba Adeyemi, born on Oct. 15, 1938, emerged the Alaafin in 1970 and was coronated on Jan. 14, 1971 at the age of 31.
Dare said that Alaafin’s reign had fostered unity, love and hope in Oyo State and the country in general.
“On behalf of the good people of Oyo state and Nigerians at large, I felicitate with his Imperial Majesty, Oba Lamidi Olanrewaju Adeyemi III on the special occasion of your 50th coronation anniversary.
“Your reign has not only brought stability, progress and development, it has fostered unity, love and hope in Oyo State and Nigeria in general.
“Your fatherly role, wisdom and peaceful disposition has been quite inspiring in the last 50 years of your reign.
“You are not just a custodian of our rich cultural values and tradition, but a lover of humanity and consummate sportsman,” he said.
According to the minister, Oba Adeyemi remains one of the longest reigning traditional ruler in Yorubaland, and described him as an exemplary leader whose life of selfless service is worthy of emulation.
“Your life is indeed very exemplary not only to the old generation, but to the youth who have a lot to learn from your life of selfless service.
“His Majesty Alaafin remains one of the longest reigning traditional rulers in Yoruba Land.
“As you continue to lead the people of our great Kingdom, may God bless and sustain you in good health,” Dare said.