Ooni Of Ife, Alara Of Ilara Visit Uganda, Seek Trade, Economic Opportunities For Nigeria (Photos)

EKO HOT BLOG reports that the Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi Ojaja II CFR, along with his esteemed entourage, which includes his wife, Olori Temitope Ogunwusi, and Alara of Ilara-Epe kingdom, Oba Olufolarin Ogunsanwo, have embarked on a significant seven-day working visit to the Republic of Uganda.

This mission was the result of an invitation from the President of Uganda, Yoweri Museveni, and his wife, Mrs. Janet Museveni, in celebration of their wedding anniversary and vow renewal ceremony in the picturesque town of Rukungiri, Uganda.

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The core purpose of this visit, in line with Ooni Adeyeye’s consistent efforts to strengthen bilateral relationships, foster cultural exchange, and promote peace and stability across Africa, took on a significant focus on trade and economic opportunities for Nigeria.

After participating in the ceremony, Ooni Adeyeye held a private meeting with President Museveni at the State House in Entebbe, where they engaged in extensive discussions on enhancing unity and deepening the bonds between African nations.

A pivotal element of the dialogue centered around the imperative need to cultivate robust trade and business relations between Nigeria and Uganda, according to a statement from the Ooni’s palace.

The Ooni, alongside Alara of Ilara Kingdom, Epe Division, and his entourage, articulated a compelling case for increased investments and the vital importance of economic stability within the African continent.

Moreover, Ooni Adeyeye emphasised the pivotal role that traditional rulers and their institutions play in bridging the gap between the populace and the government. He underscored their potential as catalysts for change, capable of influencing sociocultural development and advancing economic emancipation within their domains.

Ooni Adeyeye articulated the profound belief that a content populace, satisfied with government policies that prioritise critical areas such as infrastructure development, job creation, ease of doing business, and investments in education, healthcare, and social amenities, would ignite a renewed hope in democracy.

He stressed the urgent need for African nations to intensify trade activities among themselves and create an environment conducive to increased investments, thereby achieving self-sufficiency in all aspects.

The Ooni also shared his vision of an Africa united under the banner of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which, if realized, could revolutionise the continent’s economic landscape.

In addition to his focus on trade and economic development, Ooni Adeyeye reiterated his commitment to global peace and his Ojaja Pan-African Business Initiatives, extending his efforts beyond Nigeria’s borders to further unite people of African descent and advance peace and economic stability on a global scale.

Furthermore, he expressed his readiness to collaborate with the Ugandan government in revitalizing sectors that require attention, highlighting the readiness of the Ojaja Pan African initiative to invest in Uganda, enhancing socio-cultural ties and fostering economic growth among African nations.

On his part, the Alara of Ilara Kingdom said the private interactive session with the Ugandan President featured discussions around cultural, tourism, and investment opportunities.

“It was indeed a great experience,” Oba Ogunsanwo wrote on his Instagram page.

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A post shared by HRM. ALAYELUWA OBA (DR.) OLUFOLARIN OLUKAYODE OGUNSANWO JP. (@alaraofilara)

Meanwhile, President Museveni thanked his guests for honouring his invitation and disclosed his readiness to work with them on driving more trade and investment collaborations between Nigeria and Uganda.