His Royal Majesty, the Orangun of Oke-Ila, Oba Adedokun Omoniyi Abolarin, has implored Prospective Corps Members (PCMs) deployed to Osun State and those dislodged from Lagos State to continue to uphold cultural values even in their pursuit of national development.
Ọba Abolarin disclosed this while delivering the traditional lecture at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp, Ede on Tuesday. He charged the PCMs to always think about Nigeria and her development, not only during but also after their service year.
Ọba Abolarin lectured the PCMs on the importance of culture and tradition in the achievement of national development. He reiterated the fact that our cultural diversity is one of the strongest strength the nation possesses.
“our cultural diversity is one of our biggest strength if properly managed. We must learn to harness the similarities and differences in our cultures and channel them towards national development. God has endowed each culture and tradition with unique strength and resources, which we must draw upon to move the nation forward”, he said.
He went further to encourage the PCMs to uphold virtues of hard work, respect, and cultural appreciation, especially while in Yorubaland.
“Have good character and build on your social capital. Our culture should depict tolerance of everyone from all parts of the country. The Yorubas value respect extremely. This should be your watchword while you are here.”
The Oba also assured the PCMs that so long as they respect and promote the culture of their place of national assignment alongside their own native cultures, they would not only enjoy their service year but effectively make Nigeria a better place.
“Rest assured that you are going to have a memorable service year,” the King affirmed to the elated PCMs.
The event also featured a dance performance by the Oba’s cultural troupe.
