Tayese of London visits Oniba to strengthen cultural ties, support humanity

Chief Olanrewaju Sharafa, the Tayese of London, paid a ceremonial visit to His Imperial Majesty Oba Dr. Sulaimon Adesina Raji (Ashade I), the Oniba of Iba, at the weekend, to celebrate the monarch’s fourth-year anniversary on the throne.

The visit served as an opportunity to honour the monarch’s dedication to community development and the preservation of the Yoruba culture and heritage.

In his address, Chief Sharafa, Founder, Tayese Academy of Arts and Culture(TAAC) expressed profound admiration for Oba Raji’s leadership and his commitment to uplifting humanity.

Sharafa said: “His Imperial Majesty is not just a ruler, but a true inspiration. His reign exemplifies kindness, progress, and a deep love for Yoruba culture, which deserves to be celebrated.

“This visit marks a new chapter for TAAC. We are not only cultural ambassadors but also advocates for meaningful change.

“We will stand by Iba and contribute to the monumental work being carried out by His imperial majesty.

The Tayese of London reiterated his commitment to fostering cultural and humanitarian collaborations.

He noted that the ceremonial visit not only celebrated a milestone in the reign of Oba Raji, but also underscored the shared vision of preserving Yoruba heritage and improving lives through purposeful action.

In a significant announcement, Chief Sharafa revealed plans to establish the Tayese Charity Project in Nigeria, which will focus on humanitarian efforts.

He explained that unlike Tayese London, which primarily promotes Yoruba culture and heritage, the charity initiative will address pressing societal needs and support traditional institutions like the Oniba of Iba’s palace.

According to him, this project will ensure that the impactful work of our monarchs continues to thrive, creating a legacy of growth and positive change.

In his remark, Oba Raji appreciated the Tayese of London for the visit, expressesing his happiness to the ceremonial courtesy call.

The royal highness also used the opportunity to pay tribute to Olori Nofisat Abeni Iyaghana Oniba, the widow of the late Oba Oseni, for her ongoing dedication to the development of Iba.

He noted that Olori’s steadfast support of community initiatives continues to leave an indelible mark on the people of Iba, even under the reign of the current Kabiesi.

Highlighting the monarch’s achievements, Mr Adesoji Agbawi, representing the Iba Youth community, spoke on the remarkable progress achieved under the leadership of Oba Raji.

Agbawi highlighted key development projects initiated by the monarch and acknowledged his unwavering focus on the welfare of his people.

He also appreciated Chief Sharafa’s visit, emphasizing that it brought encouragement and solidarity, further strengthening the bond between the monarch and the larger Yoruba community.

Speaking on behalf of Chief Sharafa’s entourage, Mr Taiwo Folaranmi, expressed deep gratitude to the Oniba of Iba for his hospitality and magnanimity.

“We are inspired by Kabiesi’s leadership and will continue to support the progress of the Iba community in every possible way,” Folaranmi said.

The visit concluded with a vibrant showcase of Yoruba cultural performances, featuring traditional songs, dances, and artistic expressions.

This symbolized the enduring bond between the Tayese of London and the Iba community while reinforcing the importance of cultural preservation.