Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening traditional institutions and promoting grassroots development across the state.
The governor gave the assurance through the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development, Mrs. Kikelomo Bolarinwa, during the first coronation anniversary of the Osolo of Isolo Kingdom, Oba Isa Abiodun Olakunke Faronbi-Shekoni, Alagbeji 111, and the commissioning of the kingdom’s newly completed ultra-modern palace, Ile “Akinbaiye”, named after the founder of Isolo.
Sanwo-Olu praised the monarch for promoting peace, preserving cultural heritage and driving development within the ancient Awori kingdom, describing traditional rulers as critical partners in governance and community development.
The celebration attracted an array of traditional rulers, government officials, religious leaders and community stakeholders from Lagos and Ogun states.
Reflecting on his first year on the throne, Oba Shekoni expressed gratitude to God, traditional institutions and the people of Isolo for their support throughout the period.
“As I reflect on the journey of the past one year, my heart flows with gratitude to Almighty God, the giver of life, wisdom and authority, for preserving us and making this day a reality despite the challenges,” the monarch said.
The Osolo used the occasion to call for reconciliation and unity among all segments of the kingdom, stressing that collective progress must override personal interests and differences.
“The development of our people must supersede personal interests and divisions. I invite everyone on board in unity, peace and collective responsibility as we continue to build a secure, culturally vibrant and economically progressive kingdom for generations yet unborn,” he stated.
Oba Shekoni also reiterated his commitment to preserving Awori cultural heritage, advancing education and strengthening collaboration between traditional institutions and government.
Speaking with journalists after the event, the monarch described the completion of the palace as a landmark achievement and a symbol of the kingdom’s cultural identity.
“The role of every traditional ruler is to protect and promote culture. This palace is for the entire community. Through it, we are preserving our heritage and ensuring that future generations understand their roots and identity,” he said.
He noted that the Awori people have faced increasing cultural challenges over the years and stressed the need to safeguard indigenous traditions for future generations.
Among the dignitaries present were the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, represented by the Asoya of Ile-Asoya, Ile-Ife, Oba Muraina Adebanjo Adedini; the Oba Prof. Adeyemi AbdulKabir Obalanlege; Chairman of Isolo Local Council Development Area, Hon. Olasoju Aremu; Chairman of the National Union of Road Transport Workers, Musiliu Akinsanya; and Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Isolo Chapter, Bishop Dr. Kayode Solomon Adebayo.
Chairman of the occasion, that Alara of Ilara, Oba Olufolarin Olukayode Ogunsanwo, praised the monarch’s leadership and prayed for a peaceful and successful reign.
The event was also attended by Oba Saheed Ademola Elegushi, several Awori traditional rulers from Lagos and Ogun states, local government chairmen, community leaders and media executives.
A major highlight of the celebration was the commissioning of “Ile Akinbaiye” the ultra-modern Osolo Palace, a project initiated more than three decades ago and completed following a pledge made by Oba Shekoni during his coronation in 2025.
Another highlight was the presentation of scholarship grants to students of Isolo Kingdom studying in tertiary institutions, a gesture widely applauded as a demonstration of the monarch’s commitment to education and youth development.
Expressing optimism about the future of the kingdom, Oba Shekoni assured residents that peace, development and cultural renaissance would remain priorities of his reign.
“By the grace of God and with the continued cooperation of our people, the future of Isolo Kingdom shall be greater than its past. May peace continue to reign in our land and may prosperity never depart from our kingdom,” he said.
