Deji Elumoye
Vice President Yemi Osinbajo has canvassed for leaders who will be ready to unite all Nigerians irrespective of tribe and religion.
He, therefore, submitted that with the challenges currently facing the nation, there was a need for proactive leaders who were prepared to bring Nigerians together.
Osinbajo made this disclosure while on a courtesy visit to the palace of Oniru of Iruland, His Royal Majesty, Oba Abdulwasiu Omogbolahan Lawal, on the occasion of the monarch’s first coronation anniversary.
The VP said: “our country needs all the leaders, the best leaders, the most proactive leaders, leaders prepared to bring the country together. Lagos is a microcosm of Nigeria, everybody is here, if things work out well here, things will be okay in the country.
Addressing the Oniru directly Osinbajo observed that “I am sure your role here is that of someone who brings together communities not just Yorubas, but everybody. And I can see that from your choice of chiefs, you have gone to other parts, and I think this is the attitude of great leaders.”
While praying for the Oba to have a successful reign on the throne, the Vice President said the progress of his kingdom and its people will be determined by the quality of leadership he provides, which is a yardstick to measure the role of traditional rulers in the country.
His words: “you should know that you are always in my prayers because I believe that your role is crucial not just for the development of this state, but for the whole country.
“Today you cannot relegate traditional rulers because of the exposure and education of those who occupy that position.”
In his address of welcome, the Oniru of Iruland thanked the Vice President for his leadership and commitment to the progress of the country.
While pledging the support of the entire kingdom for the Federal Government, the Oba said Osinbajo’s leadership style is an example for other leaders across the country to follow, noting that “you are a leader whose direction we will continue to follow”.
His words: “the relationship between the Vice President and I had been very cordial. We belong to the same school of thought. He calls and advises me on several issues.
“I want to assure you, Mr Vice President that I will not disappoint you, I will ensure the progress of this kingdom and I will be just.”
