The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, on Sunday solicited the support of the US Government in tackling security challenges currently facing Nigeria.
Adeyemi made the call in Oyo, while receiving a delegation of US diplomats in his palace.
The delegation was led by the US Consular General, Jeffrey Hawkins, who was accompanied by his wife, Annie.
The monarch used the opportunity to call on the US Government to assist Nigeria in fighting terrorism, which he described as the major problem facing Nigeria at the moment.
He said: “Let me use this opportunity to call on the American Government to assist our dear country in tackling terrorism which is bedevilling the nation at this present time.”
The monarch said that the support would enrich the mutual relationship that existed between Nigeria and the US.
He commended the consular-general for seeking to understand Yoruba culture, which he said, was a display of the American ‘spirit of exploration’.
Earlier in his speech, Hawkins said that the visit was to explore, understand and appreciate Yoruba culture.
He noted that it was the first time the American Consulate in Nigeria would visit the Alaafin in large number that included the Head of American Corps in Nigeria.
He described Oyo kingdom as the centre of Yoruba culture, adding that Oyo was the greatest kingdom in Nigeria, spreading across West Africa.
Hawkings assured the monarch the support of the US Government.
A prince of the Oyo Kingdom, Archbishop Ayo Ladigbolu, urged the monarch to ensure a return visit to the US.
Ladigbolu commended the consulate for appreciating Yoruba culture and Oyo Kingdom, pledging the readiness of Oyo kingdom to partner with the US.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the programme, which featured cultural displays, was attended by staff of the US Consulate and the Oyo Mesi, also known as the Chiefs-in-Council.
Also in attendance was Alhaji Badaru Suleyman, a presidential aspirant from the Republic of Benin, and a host of other well wishers.
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