Our tourism potential can feed southwest – Idanre community
Idanre in Idanre Local Government Area of Ondo State says it has large and rich tourism potential that can economically feed the entire southwest region of the country.
Dr Anthony Omolola, the Chairman of the 45th Coronation Anniversary Committee of Oba Frederick Adegunle-Aroloye, the Owa of Idanre Kingdom, stated this on Monday at a press conference heralding the anniversary.
Omolola noted that Idanre is a blessed community with exceptional topography and abundant forests and vegetations, saying that such natural attributes are not common in the country.
He added that if government could tap into the potential, there would be enough funds for development of the region and Nigeria at large.
According to him, Idanre produces over 45 per cent cocoa in Nigeria, adding that a lot of cash crops that could fetch money are abundantly available in the community.
The chairman added that Oba Aroloye’s reign in the past 45 years in the ancient town had been peaceful with development projects and progress.
He noted that the monarch, a nonagenarian, is sound and strong, saying that Idanre is always blessed with traditional rulers with sound health.
” The Kabiyesi, who was enthroned in 1976 and over 90 years, is still sound without any trace of dementia.
” His predecessor died at age of 144 years having reigned for 50 years.
” For 100 years, we have only witnessed two Kabiyesis unlike some other towns and kingdoms. Idanre is a blessed community with Kabiyesis that have long life,” he stated.
He said that the coronation anniversary would bring sons and daughters of the town together, stating that it would also showcase love, unity and progress among them.
Omolola said that the community had inaugurated N500 million Appeal Fund meant to celebrate the traditional ruler and for renovation of palace so that it would be one of the best palaces in the country.
He added that the fund would also be used to build a befitting museum, saying that the town had a pride in its strong ties with Ile Ife.
” Our Kabiyesi told us that the crown of Oduduwa is domiciled in Idanre. This is one of our pride. Idanre and Ile Ife have strong cultural ties and linkage,” he said.
The committee chairman said that the Vice President Yemi Osinbajo would be special guest on Saturday, the main day of the anniversary.
” On Friday, Ooni of Ile Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, will be present as the royal father of the day because chieftaincy titles will be conferred on some notable people such as: Sen. Ayo Akinyelure, representing Ondo Central Senatorial District, Maj.-Gen. Benson Akinrogunyo, Benson Akinsegere and others.
” Saturday is the D-day. Many prominent Obas especially in Yoruba land will come. The Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo will be present,” he stated.
Omolola noted that all the components in the Idanre kingdoms, Alade, Atosin, Owena and others are a united entity, speaking the same language.
He, therefore, appreciated the state governor, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, for the newly constructed roads linking the town to Akure.( NAN)
