Vice-President Kashim Shettima, on Saturday, told Nigerians that multicultural diversity of the country should be seen as a source of strength, not division.
Shettima said this during the celebration of the 37th edition of the Akesan day held at the Christ Apostolic Grammar School, Iperu-Remo, Ogun State.
He said the Akesan day is a testimony to the potential that lies with the citizens of the country when they unite under the banner of their shared heritage.
The Vice President who also called on the people of the country to harness the past of the people to show a brighter future for generations to come, added that the people of the country should also learn from Iperu-Remo the spirit of unity for operational determination.
Shettima while thanking the Governor and the people of Iperu-Remo for reminding the government and people of the country of the sociology and economics of culture and festivities in nation building through the preservation of beautiful tradition, added that in celebrating culture, the people also celebrate its identity and pride.
“The Akesan festival stands as a testimony to the potential that lies within us when we unite under the banner of our shared heritage.
“This edition of the festival, like the ones before, speaks of the essence of the unity we have forged as a nation,it symbolizes the heart beat of our nation.
“I commend you for investing significant time and resources to establish Iperu-Remo on the map and to remind us of this heritage. You have reinforced the identities and pride of our communities,forstering their patriotism and their commitment to pursuing our collective progress and nurture the bonds that bind us as a people,” he said.
The Akarigbo and Chairman of the Ogun State Council of Obas, Babatunde Ajayi, congratulated Governor Dapo Abiodun on his victory at the Court of Appeal, calling on all parties involved in the legal battle to sheath their swords and come together for a more prosperous state.
On his part, Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State, described the people of Kogi and Ogun as inter-married, describing the Akesan day celebration as a wonderful event that would continue to Foster unity among the people of the state and the country as a whole.
In his remarks, the Ogun State governor said the people of Iperu-Remo share cultural affinity with the people of Ife, adding that his administration would continue to promote culture and tradition.
Governor Abiodun noted that commercial operation would soon begin at the Ogun State Agro Cargo Airport which is nearing completion,saying that his administration would continue to build on the successes of the first term.
Abiodun, while commending the judiciary for upholding the rule of law, promised not to betray the trust of the people of the state.
The event also had in attendance the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon Tajudeen Abass, Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwoolu, Gov Abdulrasaq AbdulRahaman of Kwara State, former governor of Ogun State, Chief Olusegun Osoba, the Chairman, Senate Committee on Appropriations and Senator representing Ogun West, Sen Olamilekan Adeola among others.
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