Oba of Benin Greets Tinubu, Shettima, Says Inauguration Fulfilment of Destiny

Wants focus on youth development

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

The Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare Il, has congratulated President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Shettima Kashim on their successful inauguration.

In two separate letters to the topmost Nigerian leaders, the revered monarch prayed for the overall wellbeing of the duo, describing Tinubu’s ascension as fulfilment of destiny.

“On behalf of the Royal Court of Benin, Benin Royal family and the good people of Edo State, I congratulate Your Excellency on your successful swearing-in ceremony as the 16th President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“Your swearing in as the 16th president of this great country was as a result of fulfilment of destiny, the people’s will and wish of God Almighty who made it possible to assume the mantle of leadership,” the traditional ruler said in the letter to the president.

He noted that from Tinubu’s antecedents, he had no doubt that the president will excel in the position and fulfill his mandate to Nigerians, pleading with him, however, to give more opportunity to youth development in the country.

“Once again, I heartily congratulate Your Excellency on your inauguration and pray to God Almighty and our Ancestors to grant you the wherewithal to pilot the affairs of our great country, Nigeria,” he added.

To Shettima, the monarch stated that his choice as the number two citizen of the country, Nigeria, was a testament to his loyalty, commitment, trust and the will of God.

With the beginning of a new dispensation for a better Nigeria, the Oba said he was very optimistic that Shettima will join hands with Tinubu, to “bring forth the Nigeria of our dream.”

“Once again, I heartily congratulate Your Excellency on your inauguration and pray to God Almighty and our Ancestors to grant you the wherewithal as the Vice-President of our great country, Nigeria,” he added.