Traditional rulers must prioritize domain development, says Ogun governor

Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun has called on traditional rulers to actively prioritize the development of their respective domains and collaborate with the government to foster grassroots progress. Abiodun made these remarks during the official installation and presentation of instruments of office to the new Alaye of Imobi Land, Oba Fatai Olatunji Balogun, in the Ijebu East Local Government Area.

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There is no doubt that as a responsible government, our administration has always recognised the roles of our royal fathers in advancing peace and driving rapid development across the state.

Represented by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Ganiyu Hamzat, the governor highlighted the state government's commitment to promoting industrial growth and attracting high-value investments. "There is no doubt that as a responsible government, our administration has always recognized the roles of our royal fathers in advancing peace and driving rapid development across the state," Hamzat stated, conveying the governor's message. He urged the traditional rulers to continue supporting the government's development agenda and encouraged the people of Imobi to become proactive champions of state investment initiatives.

Chairman of Ijebu East Local Government, Dr. Oluwadare Kehinde, congratulated the new monarch, emphasizing the shared responsibility of leaders and citizens in driving societal growth. He urged Oba Balogun to focus on advancing the development of Imobi Land and the state. The Obiri of Aiyepe, Oba Adebisi Okubanjo, advocated for an inclusive reign to ensure the loyalty, trust, and cooperation of the people.

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I urge our royal fathers to continue to support the determination of our government to drive development across the state. I also encourage the people of Imobi to become proactive champions of the state government’s investment initiatives, ensuring that progress thrives within their community and beyond.

In his acceptance speech, Oba Balogun expressed gratitude to the state government and pledged his commitment to transformative leadership in Imobi. The installation followed a traditional process that began during the tenure of the late Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona. Stakeholders noted that the Imobi Obaship Committee's activities were supported by Oba Babatunde Olaogun Ogunlaja, the Aladeshonyin of Noforija, who led the committee to the late Awujale, who subsequently endorsed Oba Balogun.

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I’m delighted to be beginning a new adventure at such an ambitious club as Paris Saint-Germain. I’d like to thank President Nasser Al-Khelaïfi, Luis Campos and coach Luis Enrique for giving me the opportunity to join the team, which I hope to help win as many trophies as possible.