The governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, reiterated the administration’s commitment to working continuously with relevant organisations to protect the state’s cultural legacy in order to promote religious freedom and peaceful coexistence.
The Governor mentioned this in his speech at the Association of African Traditional Religions of Nigeria and Overseas (AATREN) Y2022 Annual Conference, which was held at the Ilasan Playing Ground in Elegushi, Eti-Osa Local Government Area of the State with the theme “Africa Traditional Religion, Catalyst to National Stability.” The occasion served as a lead-up to the yearly “Isese Day”.
Sanwo-Olu praised the association for its outstanding contributions in advancing indigenous religion toward the creation of a just and peaceful society.
He was represented at the event by his Special Adviser on Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Barrister Olufemi Martins, and he added that the State government would continue to support all initiatives aimed at fostering and preserving Lagos culture.
The State Government, through its relevant Ministries, Departments, and Agencies, would provide the Association with all necessary support in its efforts to promote traditional religion in Lagos State.
Mr. Governor commended the President of AATREN and everyone committed to the sustenance of the rich cultural heritage of Africans.
The Honourable Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Gbenga Omotoso, also spoke, noting that traditional religions are an important component of African culture and should continue to receive the recognition they deserve.
He also pledged that the government would continue to foster an environment that would allow people to practise their religion freely in accordance with applicable laws of the land.
The Commissioner expressed gratitude for AATREN’s role in promoting harmony in Lagos while being represented by Mrs. Adeola Olagoke, an Assistant Director in the Ministry.
In his opening remarks, High Chief Ifasegun Elegushi, President of AATREN and Opemoluwa of Ikate Land, prayed for continued peace among residents of Lagos State in particular and Nigeria in general.
He urged the people to remain devoted to making sure that their religious practises do not obstruct their peaceful coexistence with others.
“Let us recommit ourselves to enhancing our centuries-old traditional faiths, native languages, traditional manners, and the methods of coexisting with others in peace,” he added. We cannot let civilization take this from us.
Additionally, religion ought to be a tool of peace that strengthens the bonds amongst Nigerians rather than being a source of conflict.
The High Chief emphasised that the majority of problems faced by Africans can be attributed to the neglect of family rites, which can be resolved by appeasing one’s family deities.
He also urged association members to lead by example and teach their children about the tradition and culture they practise.
Elegushi, however, pleaded with the Lagos State Government to take into account its request for a holiday on August 20 in observance of its annual “Isese Day.”
Eminent Obas, Baales, White Cap Chiefs, Iyaolojas, Babaolojas, and other representatives of traditional religion are among the dignitaries that attended the ceremony.
The umbrella organisation for all traditional organisations and associations in Nigeria and abroad is the Association of African Traditional Religion Practitioners of Nigeria (AATREN).