The Oodua Progressive Union (OPU), Malaysia chapter, has restated the need for cultural integration and business merger between Nigeria and Malaysia.
The Yoruba diaspora organisation made the commitment during the 2024 edition of O’odua Day in Malaysia.
Global Convener of OPU, Iba Gani Adams who is also the Aare Onakakanfo of Yorubaland, in his goodwill message delivered online, urged OPU members to be committed to the ideals of the organisation.
He stated that the Yoruba diaspora organisation would continue to contribute its quota to the unity and progress of Yorubaland and Nigeria as a whole.
He also harped on building strong and enduring relationships between Nigeria and Malaysia, even as he urged all members of the organisation, the Yoruba community and Nigerians abroad to see themselves as ambassadors of Yoruba race in Malaysia.
“I am happy that you are projecting our culture positively to the world. OPU is presently in 102 countries across the six continents of the world and it is our plan to expand the frontiers across the world.
“With this kind of gathering,I believe strongly that we will continue to work relentlessly in ensuring that the Yoruba race takes its pride of place in the global community.
“OPU members should work together as one big family in order to achieve the best not only for themselves but for the country as a whole.”
Coordinator of OPU Malaysia, Akogun Olakanye Franklin, said he was excited that the organisation succeeded in organizing the O’odua Day.
“Our organisation will not relent in our efforts to protect the Yoruba race against internal and external forces.
“We will continue to promote our culture and defend the interest of the Yoruba people and justice in Nigeria. We will always seek the truth, justice and fairness as that is the best legacy we can hand over to the next generation of Yoruba race.
“It is our responsibility as an organisation to alter the destiny of our race positively for the benefit of the young generation.
“Yoruba race is noted for records of successes in education, health, sports science and technology, politics, as well as human growth and development.
“We are of the firm belief that with a common sense of purpose,the Yoruba race can work towards realising the dreams and aspirations of our forefathers.”
Chairman Committee at Business Council for Malaysia Vietnam Friendship Association (MVFA), Mr Hambali Mukhlas, who spoke on the topic: “Malaysia, ASEAN and economic collaboration” restated the need for effective business collaborations between Nigeria and Malaysia.
He highlighted the significance of shared cultural values and collaborations, insisting that the Yoruba race has the potential to be one of the leading races in the world.
“I believe there are many great opportunities for collaboration between Malaysians ASEAN and Nigeria, particularly through cultural exchange, shared heritage and diversity.
“One area we can explore is identifying food- related businesses that could be achieved through mergers and acquisition in Malaysia.”
The Nigeria High Commission in Malaysia, Mr. Olumuyiwa Dayo Ogundipe, applauded the efforts of the OPU in bringing the Yoruba descendants together to celebrate O’odua Day.
Meanwhile, President of Yoruba Community in Malaysia, Aare olola Ahmed Adebanjo, said OPU is a global organisation under the leadership of the Yoruba generalissimo, who has been a major inspiration to the Yoruba across the world.
Prominent dignitaries present at the event included Mrs. Oluwatoyin Salami Odiete, Counsellor Trade and Investment Nigeria High Commission, Malaysia,
Mrs. Shomade Ghaniat, Secretary, Lagos State Sports Commission, Adenike, Akinkumi Olaomi Akala, Baba Oodua Alhaji Jamiu Ayegoro and Iya O’odua Princess Adenike Olotu. Members of the Yoruba community Malaysia, and Edo Community Malaysia, among others.