THE Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Babatunde Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, has described members of the Nigerian–Canadian Association as a group of responsible Nigerians in Diaspora who have not only showcased themselves as good ambassadors of the nation, but have also displayed to the whole world their patriotic zeal about their country, Nigeria, and its people.
Oba Ogunwusi made this observation in his speech while welcoming members of the association, who arrived Nigeria with a member of parliament, Ramesh Sangha, Canada House of Common who paid him a visit in his Enuowa Palace, Ile–Ife.
Oba Ogunwusi, who applauded the importunity of Mrs. Abi Goodman, President, OZ Consulting, the initiator of the programme whom he described as a lady of purpose said that the members of the association have patriotically distinguished themselves as true lights of Nigeria.
His words: “You have not only allowed your light to shine outside Nigeria for the sake of Canadians, but you have conscientiously minded yourself of your duty to your father’s land by facilitating and bringing back goodies of fortune and testimonies of prosperity from your land of sojourn to Nigeria. This is not only commendable, but worthy of emulation. I am proud of you.”
The Ooni applauded the intention and proposition of MP Sangha, saying: “I also have to commend the sincerity of purpose of the Canada House of Common, which MP Sangha represents here today. I assure you of our utmost collaboration in areas of youth empowerment, cultural–tourism networking, education, agriculture and other areas of collaboration which is not only on a symbiotic benefit, but another platform of lubricating the smooth relationship between Nigeria and Canada”
Oba Ogunwusi assured the visiting MP Sangha and Nigerian–Canadian Association of his presence and participation at the 150th Canadian independence ceremony.
“It is an honour for the Parliament and Government of Canada to have sent you here for this purpose, and all things being equal, we shall all be there to honour and grace the day”.
MP Sangha had earlier told the Ooni that he was in Nigeria to convey the wish of the Canadian government and the Members of the House of Common to host the Ooni and his entourage at their 150th Canadian Independence holding in July.
He also expressed his willingness of collaborating with the Ooni of Ife in the area of Cultural-tourism exchange, education advancement, youth empowerment and agriculture.”
Ooni Ogunwusi presented a gift to MP Ramesh Sangha.
Mrs Abi Goodman, President OZ Consulting revealed the essence of the project and visit “We are propelled by the patriotic fervour and zeal in us first as Nigerians who left Nigeria for Canada and doing well in Canada due to the Canadian’s exemplary system of government and the environment, to give back to our country what we have gained in Canada. Secondly, we are also actuated by our desire to oil the conveyor belt of the bi–lateral relationship between our country Nigeria and our host country, Canada. We believe that there is no apt time for such a connection than the time which the Canadian are celebrating their nationhood”.
She pointed out “Thus, we want to use the 150th Canadian independence as an everlasting bridge of sustainable relationship between Nigeria and Canada. We want to showcase the best of Nigeria cultural tourism and heritage by bringing into Canada the best of cultural groups from the six geo—political zones of the country”.
Mrs Peju Oke, a prominent member of the association remarked “We are making sure that Nigerians are well represented and participate actively at the 150th Canadian’s independence. We are consulting and making efforts at ensuring that inviting stakeholders to join us in Canada for this remarkable celebration. The invitation is not restricted to individual, but also to educational institutions, corporate entities and corporations which can add value of growth and economic advancement to both countries.”
