IN his determination to promote the cultural identity of Yoruba race, foster lasting peace and better relationship with the international world, Aare Onakakanfo of Yoruba land, Aare Gani Adams, on Monday, visited the Consulate General of the Federal Republic of Germany, in Lagos.
Adams, who arrived the consul’s office at about 11 am, with his entourage, was received by the consular, Mr Ingo Herbert
Giving reasons for the visit, Aare Adams, said as the 15th Aare Onakakanfo of Yoruba land, it is very important for him to interact with the international world to promote the culture of the Yorubas, seek better relationship and forge a better economic tie among the top European countries in the world. He said from the history, Aare Onakakanfo is a unique and the most prestigious title in Yorubaland, created about 558 years ago, by Alaafin Ajagbo in the 15th century, to defend and protect the interest of the Yoruba race.
He described the past holders of the title as brave and courageous personalities. Adams said:” With due respect to the past holders of the title, as a modern holder of the title, we are not fighting any war at the moment, it is time for peace and I am here to promote our cultural identity and enhance economic ties with Germany.’’
Adams described the Yoruba race as a nucleus in Nigeria, with over 70 million people and about 250 million across the world.
“I am here to seek better relationship between my office and the office of the Consular General and see how we can benefit from the relationship. As a regular traveller, I have been to over 54 countries across the world, I have visited, Hamburg and other great cities in Germany’’.He also spoke about his plan to establish a Peace and Conflict Resolution strategy, seeking solution to the problem of illegal migrants across Europe. He said: “I have a formidable structure across the country, most especially, in the South West and with the Oodua Progressive Union (OPU), in 79 countries in the world, I think we can forge a better relationship.’’
On his part, the German Consular, Herbert, congratulated Aare Adams on his new title.
He expressed his readiness to facilitate a lasting relationship with the office of the Aare Onakakanfo, especially, on the need to enlighten Nigerians on the danger of illegal migration to European countries. He said since he came to Nigeria about two years ago, he has been enjoying a robust relationship with Nigerians. The consular also spoke about the business plans, including the various opportunities for Nigerians in Germany, to study and have better exposure and experiences in vocational training.
Herbert noted also that Nigeria has a long history of better relationship with Germany, saying the relationship lasts over four decades.
He said with the new leadership, Nigeria has the potentials to occupy its pride of place among the great countries of the world.
