The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi Ojaja, on Monday, tasked children to prepare for a prosperous future through hard with a view to becoming leaders of the nation.
He gave the charge in his palace while playing host to children from all parts of the ancient city to celebrate the 2019 Christmas festival.
In his annual festive gesture, the frontline traditional ruler received the children who stormed his Ile Oodua Palace in their large numbers with lovely Christmas songs and prayers.
According to Oba Ogunwusi: “I can see future doctors, accountants, lawyers and other professionals among you. Equally, I can see Nigeria’s future president, governor, kings and queens among you.”
At the event which was packaged by Hopes Alive Initiative and sponsored by Indomine, the children who could not hide their joy chorused several songs with the Ooni.
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Represented by Miss Wumi, the Chief Deputy Convener, Hopes Alive Initiative, Princess Temitope Adesegun, described the event as an avenue to celebrate the children as leaders of tomorrow.
“Children, this is your season and I want to implore you to continue as good children to your parents while you enjoy it to the fullest. This is a holiday season, be obedient and avoid bad friends. It shall be well with you,” Princess Temitope admonished.
Aside from the prizes given to the children, some of them who participated in the games and contests organised to spice up the show got fantastic prizes.
Titilope Eluwole who was among the children and equally won a package from the brand sponsor expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the Ooni, HAI, Indomine, her colleagues and her parents for the wonderful experience.
“I have never seen the king in my life and this is my first time of coming to the palace. I am so happy because this event gave me such a beautiful opportunity and I will never forget in my life,” Titilope noted.
Speaking on behalf of Indomine, the brand sponsor for the event, the Regional Manager (South West) Mr Kunle Osinoiku thanked the Ooni for the warm reception and equally lauded Hopes Alive Initiative for the brilliant idea.