LAGOS — The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening collaboration with traditional institutions in promoting peace, preserving cultural heritage and accelerating grassroots development as Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu congratulated His Royal Majesty, Alaiyeluwa Oba Ibikunle Onikoyi (Fafunwa II), the Onikoyi of Ikoyi and Imoba Land, on the occasion of his first coronation anniversary.

Governor Sanwo-Olu’s goodwill message was delivered by the Special Adviser on Rural Development, Dr. Nurudeen Yekinni Agbaje, who represented the Governor at the anniversary celebration held on Sunday, August 2, at the Giwa Barracks Football Field, Falomo, Ikoyi.

The colourful event attracted an impressive gathering of traditional rulers, government officials, community leaders, dignitaries and residents who came together to celebrate the monarch’s one year on the throne.

Hosted by the Executive Chairman of Ikoyi-Obalende Local Council Development Area, Hon. Bola Oladunjoye, the event underscored the enduring relevance of traditional institutions in community leadership and development.

Speaking on behalf of Governor Sanwo-Olu, Dr. Agbaje described traditional rulers as indispensable partners in governance, noting that their contributions to peacebuilding, conflict resolution, cultural preservation and grassroots mobilisation remain critical to the continued progress of Lagos State.

According to him, traditional institutions have, over the centuries, served as custodians of justice, communal harmony and indigenous values, complementing democratic governance while fostering sustainable development across communities.

He reaffirmed the Lagos State Government’s commitment to sustaining productive engagement with royal fathers, recognising their strategic role in promoting security, mobilising residents for development and supporting the implementation of government policies and programmes.

Reflecting on the monarch’s first year on the throne, Dr. Agbaje described the anniversary as a significant milestone that reflects the confidence and acceptance the people have reposed in the traditional institution.

He commended Oba Ibikunle Onikoyi (Fafunwa II) for his purposeful leadership and unwavering commitment to preserving the rich cultural heritage of Ikoyi and Imoba Land while promoting peace, unity and development within the kingdom.

Congratulating the monarch, Dr. Agbaje offered prayers for God’s continued guidance, good health, wisdom and a peaceful reign.

Delivering Governor Sanwo-Olu’s goodwill message, he said:

“On behalf of the Government and the good people of Lagos State, I warmly congratulate Your Royal Majesty, Alaiyeluwa Oba Ibikunle Onikoyi (Fafunwa II), on the occasion of your First Coronation Anniversary.

“We thank Almighty God for His faithfulness in preserving your life, granting you wisdom and strengthening your reign over the past year.

“As Your Royal Majesty continues to occupy the revered throne of your forefathers, it is our prayer that your reign will continue to be blessed with enduring peace, sound health, divine guidance and greater accomplishments for the people of Ikoyi, Obalende, Imoba Land and Lagos State at large.”

The anniversary celebration featured colourful cultural performances, goodwill messages from dignitaries and special prayers for the continued peace, unity and prosperity of the kingdom.

The event also reaffirmed the enduring partnership between the Lagos State Government and traditional institutions in promoting inclusive governance, preserving cultural values and driving sustainable grassroots development across the state.