The palace of His Royal Majesty, Oba James Babatunde Ajiboye, Otutubiosun I, Ajigbotulu, the Elemure of Emure-Ekiti, was aglow with camaraderie, prayers, and pledges of partnership as members of Emure-Ekiti Global Impact paid a royal courtesy visit to congratulate the monarch on his ascension to the throne of his forefathers.
The delegation, led by the Convener, Publisher, and Editor-in-Chief of the group, Mr. J.T. Akinlolu, was received in audience by the monarch alongside senior palace chiefs and officials. The visit was more than a formal courtesy call; it was a reaffirmation of the unity between the throne and the Emure indigenes in the diaspora, who continue to play crucial roles in the cultural and socio-economic advancement of the town.
A Message of Congratulation and Commitment
In his remarks, Mr. Akinlolu praised Oba Ajiboye’s bold and visionary leadership since assuming the royal stool. He noted that Emure-Ekiti Global Impact was established to strengthen the identity, voice and influence of Emure indigenes at home and abroad, while championing development in key areas such as education, youth empowerment, infrastructure and cultural preservation.
He highlighted the significant strides already being made by the monarch within a short time, describing them as “foundations upon which greater growth will be built.” He urged Kabiyesi to remain steadfast and accelerate developmental initiatives so that Emure can take its rightful place among the most advanced towns in Ekiti State and the entire South-West.
“Kabiyesi, your reign already signals hope for this kingdom. We encourage you to pursue ambitious projects that will place Emure at the centre of progress in Ekiti State. On our part, we pledge continuous support and partnership so that together we can make Emure a shining example of unity, progress, and excellence. We pray that your reign will be long, peaceful, and prosperous,” he said.
The Symbolism of Diaspora Engagement
The visit also underlined the growing significance of diaspora-led initiatives in Yoruba traditional communities. For centuries, Yoruba monarchs have embodied not only political and cultural authority but also served as rallying points for their people across borders. Today, with the increasing influence of diasporan communities, partnerships such as that of Emure-Ekiti Global Impact have become central to town development, enabling projects that government alone cannot achieve.
By aligning with Kabiyesi’s vision, the group has signalled a new phase of synergy where the throne becomes a hub for mobilising collective resources, both within Nigeria and beyond, for the advancement of the kingdom.
Voices and Presence of Eminent Sons
The meeting also brought together high-ranking chiefs and respected personalities who joined in prayers for the monarch and reaffirmed their loyalty to the throne. Among them were High Chief Toyin Ojo, the Olisa of Emure-Ekiti; Chief Olu Faleyimu; Mr. Tunde Adejugbe, Secretary to HRM; Hon. Clement Falaju, Chief Protocol Officer to HRM and Mr. Ayodele Idowu, also representing Emure-Ekiti Global Impact.
Their presence symbolised the broad-based support that Kabiyesi enjoys — from traditional institutions to community leaders, from indigenes at home to those abroad — all united under the common vision of repositioning Emure-Ekiti.
A Throne Rooted in Developmental Vision
Since his coronation, Oba Ajiboye has made development a cornerstone of his reign. From infrastructure renewal to cultural revival, from youth engagement to interfaith harmony, the monarch has been deliberate in ensuring that his rule translates into tangible progress for the people.
His reign has also rekindled the confidence of diaspora organisations and civic groups, who now see the palace not merely as a custodian of tradition but also as a partner in sustainable development.
The Road Ahead for Emure-Ekiti
As the prayers echoed within the palace walls and handshakes sealed promises of cooperation, one thing became clear: the partnership between the throne and Emure-Ekiti Global Impact represents a new dawn for the kingdom.
It is a dawn of unity between home and abroad, of faith in leadership, and of shared responsibility for progress. With Kabiyesi at the helm and the collective strength of his people rallying behind him, Emure-Ekiti is poised to not only catch up with its peers across Ekiti and Yorubaland but also to set a standard for what visionary royal leadership can achieve in modern times.
The visit ended on a note of joy and hope — a reminder that while thrones may be ancient, the relevance of kingship lies in how it inspires, unites and delivers progress for the people.
