..Iba Gani Adams, Mukhlas others restate commitment to unity
By Adeyinka Adeniran
The Malaysia chapter of the Oodua Progressive Union (OPU) has restated the need for cultural integration and business merger between Nigeria and Malaysia.
The Yoruba diaspora organization made the commitment during the 2024 edition of Oodua day in Malaysia.
The event, according to the OPU Malaysia, had global coverage and appeal, making it a major milestone in Asia.
Global Convener of OPU, Iba Gani Adams who is also the Aareonakakanfo of Yorubaland, in his goodwill message delivered online, urged OPU members to be committed to the ideals of the organization.
He noted that the Yoruba diaspora organization will continue to contribute its quota to the unity and progress of Yoruba land and Nigeria as a whole.
He also harped on building strong and enduring relationship between Nigeria and Malaysia, even as he urged all members of the diaspora organization, the Yoruba community and Nigerians abroad to see themselves as ambassadors of Yoruba race in Malaysia.
“My goodwill message to you all is that of peace and comfort.I am happy that you are projecting our culture positively to the world. OPU is presently in 102 countries across the six continent of the world and it is our plan to expand the frontiers across the world.
“With this kind of gathering, I believe strongly that we will continue to work relentlessly in ensuring that Yoruba race takes its pride of place in the global community.
“OPU members should work together as one big family in order to achieve the best not only for themselves,but for the country as a whole”.
Coordinator of OPU Malaysia, Akogun Olakanye Franklin said he was excited that the diaspora organization succeeded in organizing the Oodua day.
He expressed appreciation to all members of the organization as well as the guests that were also present at the event.
“Our organisation will not relent in our efforts to protect the Yoruba race against internal and external forces.
“We will continue to promote our culture and defend the interest of the Yoruba people and justice in Nigeria. We will always seek the truth, justice and fairness as that is the best legacy we can hand over to the next generation of Yoruba race.
“It is our responsibility as an organisation to alter the destiny of our race positively for the benefit of the young generation.
“Yoruba race is noted for records of successes in education, health, sports science and technology, politics, as well as human growth and development.
“We are of the firm belief that with a common sense of purpose, the Yoruba race can work towards realizing the dreams and aspiration of our forefathers”.
Chairman Committee at Business Council for Malaysia Vietnam Friendship Association (MVFA) Mr Hambali Mukhlas, who spoke on the topic: “Malaysia, ASEAN, and Economic Collaboration”, restated the need for effective business collaborations between Nigeria and Malaysia.
He highlighted the significance of shared cultural values and collaborations, insisting that Yoruba race have the potentials to be one of the leading races in the world.
“Today’s event was a wonderful reflection of the vibrant Yoruba culture and its significance in our communities.
“I believe there are many great opportunities for collaboration between Malaysians ASEAN and Nigeria, particularly through cultural exchange,shared heritage and diversity.
“One area we can explore is identifying food- related businesses that could be achieved through mergers and acquisition in Malaysia”.
The Nigeria High Commission in Malaysia, Mr Olumuyiwa Ogundipe applauded the efforts of the OPU in bringing the Yoruba descendants together to celebrate the Oodua day.
Meanwhile, President of Yoruba Community in Malaysia, Olola Ahmed Adebanjo said the OPU is a global organization under the amiable leadership of the Yoruba generalissimo, Iba Gani Adams, who has been a major inspiration to the Yoruba across the world.
Other prominent dignitaries present at the event include Mrs.Oluwatoyin Salami Odiete,who is the Counsellor Trade and Investment Nigeria High Commission,Malaysia, Mrs Shomade Ghaniat, Secretary, Lagos State Sports Commission, Adenike, Hon Akinkumi Olaomi Akala, Baba Oodua Alhaji Jamiu Ayegoro and Iya Oodua Princess Adenike Olotu.Members of the Yoruba community Malaysia, and Edo Community Malaysia, among others.
