: …Couple Pledge Investment, Grassroots Development in Owu Kingdom
….Royal Honour Celebrates Diaspora Contributions to Cultural Heritage
The ancient city of Abeokuta, Ogun State, was agog with rich cultural display and royal splendour as the Olowu of Owu Kingdom, Oba Saka Matemilola, conferred prestigious chieftaincy titles on United Kingdom-based Nigerian businessman, Gbenga Oso, and his wife, Margaret Oso.
The colourful ceremony, held at the royal palace in Abeokuta, attracted dignitaries, traditional rulers, well-wishers, and indigenes from across Nigeria and the diaspora.
Gbenga Oso was installed as the Asiwaju Bobaselu of Owu Kingdom, while his wife, Margaret Oso, was honoured with the title of Yeye Asiwaju Bobaselu of Owu Kingdom.
While presenting the chieftaincy certificates, Oba Matemilola commended the couple for their remarkable contributions to community development and their sustained efforts in promoting the cultural heritage of Owu people both within Nigeria and abroad.
Speaking shortly after his installation, Gbenga Oso expressed profound gratitude for the honour, describing it as a call to higher responsibility and service to humanity.
“I am deeply humbled by this recognition from His Royal Majesty and the entire Owu Kingdom.
This title goes beyond ceremony; it is a responsibility I accept with sincerity and dedication,” he said.
Drawing from his experience abroad, Oso noted that he intends to channel his global exposure toward meaningful development in Owu land.
“Having lived and worked in the United Kingdom, I have seen the impact of structured development and investment in human capital.
I plan to leverage my network and experience to attract investments, particularly in youth empowerment, education, and small business development,” he added.
He further emphasized the importance of diaspora engagement in grassroots development.
“This is also an opportunity to strengthen ties between the diaspora and our homeland.
I will encourage Nigerians abroad to contribute actively to community growth and development,” he stated, while pledging loyalty to the throne.
In her remarks, Margaret Oso described the recognition as both emotional and inspiring, pledging to champion humanitarian and social development initiatives within the kingdom.
“This honour is deeply meaningful to me as a proud daughter of this land. It is not just a title, but a platform to make impact, especially among women, children, and vulnerable groups,” she said.
She highlighted her commitment to programmes that promote women’s economic empowerment, improved healthcare access, and educational opportunities. “Sustainable development begins at the grassroots.
I am committed to working with community leaders and development partners to create initiatives that improve livelihoods and expand opportunities,” she noted.
Margaret Oso also underscored the importance of cultural preservation and knowledge exchange, particularly among younger generations.
“Our traditions must be preserved and appreciated. I will work tirelessly to ensure that our cultural heritage remains vibrant and relevant,” she added.
The ceremony underscored the growing role of diaspora Nigerians in local development, while reinforcing the enduring relevance of traditional institutions in fostering unity, identity, and progress in contemporary society.
