President Bola Tinubu has extended heartfelt congratulations to the Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty Ewuare II, on the occasion of his 71st birthday, which also marks the eighth anniversary of his coronation.
This significant day, October 20, celebrates not only the monarch’s life but also his reign, which has seen remarkable strides in fostering unity, cultural preservation, and diplomacy within and beyond the Benin Kingdom.
In a message conveyed by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, on Saturday, Tinubu commended the Oba for his leadership and the transformative impact of his reign as the 40th Oba of Benin.
The President emphasized that since Oba Ewuare II ascended the throne in 2016, the Benin Kingdom has experienced “a new era of peace, understanding, and civility,” restoring harmony and enhancing the well-being of its people.
Before becoming the traditional ruler, Oba Ewuare II had an illustrious career in diplomacy, representing Nigeria as an ambassador to numerous nations, including Angola, Sweden, Denmark, Norway, Finland, and Italy.
Tinubu lauded the monarch’s diplomatic achievements, recognizing that his experience on the global stage has deeply enriched his approach to governance within the Kingdom.
“His diplomatic experience has contributed to the Oba’s ability to lead with wisdom and grace,” Tinubu noted.
One of the central achievements of Oba Ewuare II’s reign, highlighted by the President, is his steadfast dedication to preserving the cultural heritage of the Benin people.
The Oba has taken significant steps to reclaim the Kingdom’s priceless artefacts, many of which were looted during the colonial era.
These efforts, Tinubu remarked, are “essential symbols of the Kingdom’s history and identity.”
He praised the monarch’s relentless pursuit of these artefacts, which has reinforced pride and cultural continuity within the Benin Kingdom.
“His courage and unwavering commitment to preserving his domain’s rich cultural heritage and tradition is commendable,” Tinubu said, further acknowledging the Oba’s “relentless efforts and exploration of international networks” to recover these artefacts, which underscore his love and devotion to his people.
Additionally, the President underscored Oba Ewuare II’s pivotal role in offering wise counsel to leaders across both the private and public sectors.
He praised the monarch’s consistent advocacy for participatory democracy, recognizing that his promotion of civic responsibility has been instrumental in inspiring broader democratic engagement.
“The King’s steadfast promotion of civic responsibility and active democratic participation continues to inspire hope for a brighter future,” Tinubu observed.
As he concluded his message, President Tinubu offered prayers for continued prosperity, health, and happiness for the Oba, his family, and the entire Benin Kingdom.
“May the Kingdom continue to prosper under the wise and benevolent leadership of Ewuare II, and may he and his family be blessed with health and happiness,” he said.
