08/12/2025
The Living Secret Endowment for the development in Nigeria. An Ogoni Experience. Book Launch today abuja
My address
My Reamrks “The Living Secret Endowment for the Development in Nigeria: An Ogoni Experience” Book Launch
It is with a heart brimming with honor and a sense of solemn duty that I, in my capacity as the Royal Father of today's momentous occasion, the launching of “The Living Secret Endowment for the Development in Nigeria: An Ogoni Experience,” stand before this esteemed gathering. Your Royal Highness, our revered guests from various walks of life, the distinguished authors, and every individual present here today.
This book, a product of painstaking research and passionate advocacy, is not just a collection of pages bound together but a beacon of hope and a call to action for the Ogoni community and Nigeria at large. It lays bare the challenges we face, from environmental degradation and socio-economic inequalities to the erosion of our rich cultural heritage, and importantly, it offers solutions rooted in our traditional values and the indomitable spirit of the Ogoni people.
As traditional rulers, we are not mere custodians of culture and tradition; we are the vanguards of our people's development and well-being. This book reinforces the critical role we play in not only preserving our heritage but also in spearheading the development agenda that will uplift our communities. It is a clarion call for us to leverage our indigenous knowledge systems, to empower our youth, to bridge the gap between traditional institutions and modern governance, and to create a harmonious environment where both can thrive for the betterment of our people.
The concept of “Living Secret Endowment” is particularly poignant, highlighting the untapped potential within our communities—our human capital, our cultural wealth, and our natural resources. It is a reminder that the keys to our development lie within us, in our traditions, our values, and our collective will to forge a better future for the coming generations.
I applaud the author for his insightful contributions and for charting a course that aligns with our aspirations for self-determination, empowerment, and sustainable development. Their work is not only a testament to the resilience and strength of the Ogoni people but also serves as a guiding light for other communities navigating the path to development amidst similar challenges.
In closing, let this book not just gather dust on the shelves but ignite a flame of dialogue, policy formulation, and actionable strategies that will lead to the holistic development of the Ogoni community and Nigeria as a whole. Let us, as traditional leaders, policymakers, academics, and citizens, take up the mantle and commit ourselves to a future where our cultural heritage and developmental aspirations are not at odds but are interwoven in a rich tapestry of progress and prosperity.
Thank you, and may the wisdom of our ancestors guide us in this noble endeavor.