The Oyo State governor, Seyi Makinde, on Wednesday emphasized the need for unity as a panacea for a better society.
Makinde particularly expressed delight at the gathering of leaders of the Yoruba race in the Oyo State capital to deliberate on its progress.
He made the comments at the Pan-Yoruba Congress held at the Mapo Hall, Ibadan, Oyo State, in Ibadan on Wednesday, saying the meeting was timely, coming at a time when the region is engulfed in security challenges.
Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams, also restated his belief in the unity and progress of the Yoruba nation, maintaining that with the success of the Pan-Yoruba Congress, there is no doubt that the unity of Yoruba nation will be achieved.
Adams said the gathering was geared towards focusing the race’s energy and strengths on securing the South-West against criminals as well as to strategise on bolstering the region’s agricultural and economic prospects.
He noted that the Congress offered a bigger platform for all groups to meet and discuss the way forward for the Yoruba nation.
“Today ‘s event is a huge success, given the presence of personalities and contents of discussion which is purely about our security, agric and the economy of the South-West. And I am sure we will continue to (work together) and harness the potential of all other groups in Yorubaland in ensuring effective security of the entire South-West,”Adams said.
Chairman of the congress, Sola Lawal, expressed the hope that the pan -Yoruba congress would serve as an eye-opener for the race.
The guest lecturer, Professor David Olusoji Adejumo, said Yoruba’s resolve to seek peace and tranquility in the southwest cannot be overrun by mere banditry.
He said the Yoruba have the capacity to boost the region’s economy through enhanced agricultural templates and effective security.