Alaafin of Oyo Advocates Unity Amid Cultural Differences

Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, the Alaafin of Oyo, stated that unity is the greatest strength of any society, regardless of cultural and religious differences. He made this declaration at the commissioning of the Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola building and the fundraising event for the construction of the Imam Daud Igi Ogun Institute of Arabic and Islamic Studies in Oyo.

Oba Owoade highlighted the need for collaboration among religious leaders, government institutions, and civil society to enhance faith-based contributions to national development and promote inclusive governance. He noted that religious institutions, which are trusted by communities, play a crucial role in climate action, social welfare, and peacebuilding.

Furthermore, he advocated for integrating religious teachings with modern development frameworks to tackle poverty, environmental issues, and social inequality. The Alaafin underscored that fostering unity in diversity is essential for Nigeria, a nation characterized by rich ethnic and tribal diversity, stating that "accord, acceptance, and understanding are necessary to counter conflict division.".