In his desire to foster better relationship between Nigeria and Brazil, the Aare Onakakanfo of Yorubaland, Aare Gani Adams, on Tuesday said he is ready to use his office to seek lasting relationship with the global world.
Speaking during a courtesy visit to the Brazilian embassy, Adams said he has all it takes to promote the cultural identity and tradition of the race beyond the shores of the country.
He said efforts are on to do business with Brazil, adding that the office of the Aare Onakakanfo has a formidable structure that can partner and collaborate with the country in the area of education, agriculture and tourism.
He said: “As the Aare Onakakanfo of Yorubaland, it is my plan to use my office to enhance business relationship with the international world by creating various platforms for growth and capacity building, especially for the youth.
“This is to create a better synergy for the benefits of the two countries.”
Adams described Brazil as a second home of the Yoruba race in South and North America.
Adams said the title of the Aare Onakakanfo is a prestigious title in Yorubaland, describing past holders of the title as eminent personalities, adding that the Olokun Festival Foundation is an available platform for him promote the identity and tradition of the race.
He said: “We are here to interface with the Brazilian Government, engage them in robust discussion, particularly on education and capacity building, medical tourism and agric.
“I am a regular traveler to Brazil.
“I have been to Rio de Janeiro and a few states in Brazil.
“For instance, travelling to Brazil takes at least, six hours and there is no direct flight to the country.
“I urge the government to discuss with the airlines so as to provide Nigerians with a direct flight.
“This will attracts tourists and investors from other parts of the world.
“It will also open the country tourism space, spreading to other neighbouring countries in Africa and they will all benefit from the arrangements.”
Speaking, Consul General of Brazil, Lagos, Flavio R. Bonzanini, expressed satisfaction at the visit.
Bonzanini said the Brazilian Government is ready and committed to provide better opportunities for Nigerians in all areas, including education, agriculture and commerce.
The diplomat said the Yorubas have a history of good culture and tradition.
He added that his government has engaged scholars who come to Nigeria to learn about Yoruba history, Language, culture and tradition.
He said: “I am delighted to meet with you today because your visit is certainly the beginning of a lasting relationship and I hope it will be of great benefit to the two countries.”
The Director in charge of culture and education at the embassy, Adeniran Arimoro, spoke about the scholarship programmes sponsored by the Brazilian Government.
Arimoro said the programme was established in 1912, but started fully in Nigeria in 1960, adding that about 60 countries are presently benefiting from the programme.
He said: “We are poised to use the platform to foster peace across the world.
“That is one of the ways we can appreciate the culture of the different countries across the world.”
Follow The Eagle Online Channel on WhatsApp
