A distinguished son of Egbaland, Engr. Yemisi Shyllon has been commended for his philanthropic gesture and cultural preservation, especially through the donation of a statue that represents a tribute to the past and a gift to future generations.

The Ogun State Head of Service, Mr. Kehinde Onasanya, gave the commendation while delivering a goodwill message at the unveiling ceremony of a statue built in honour of a great hero and leader, Chief Sodeke, held at the Ake Palace Roundabout, Ake, Abeokuta.

According to the Head of Service, a debt of gratitude is owed the donor, Engr. Shyllon, who has once again demonstrated resolute commitment to the promotion of history, culture and collective identity of the people in order to ensure that the rich story of Sodeke and the founding of Abeokuta remain alive and accessible.

“I wish to remark that the unveiling of this magnificent statue is an important reminder of the rich cultural heritage of the Egbas and the foundational values of resilience, community and leadership while also representing a call to preserve the legacy of our forebears as we strive for collective progress. It should also represent an avenue to renew our commitment to the ideals of unity, heritage and progress, same that the legendary Sodeke championed during his reign”, the HoS said.

He congratulated the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, Oba. (Dr.) Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, and the entire people of Egbaland for the significant milestone in preserving their cultural heritage and wished them all abundant blessings, continued unity and prosperity as they celebrate the unveiling of the statue of the courageous and visionary icon, Chief Sodeke.

In separate goodwill messages, the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Sesan Fagbayi, represented by the Deputy Director, Tourism Development and Promotion in the Ministry, Mr. Abdulrazaq Abdulsalam, the Proprietor, Crescent University, Abeokuta, Prince Segun Ajibola (SAN), a Fellow, Nigerian Society of Engineers, Ogun State Chapter, Engr. Dele Oladipo and the President, Sculptors Association of Nigeria, Ogun State, Dr. Kehinde Badaru, said they were proud to be associated with the stride the donor has made with a pledge that they would continue to be key players in the sustenance of arts and culture, as exemplified in the making of the statue that combined arts and engineering to give it a symbol of excellence.

They urged the people to emulate the great charity of Chief Shyllon, who has chosen to generously identify with his people, by providing a compass through which the people can live their lives.

Earlier in a welcome address, the Artist, Prof. Funke Ifeta said the donor is a great leader who likes making people happy in all he does, as he desires the growth and development of his town, and added that a lot of things is still in the offing for the development of Egbaland by Chief Shyllon.

Highlight of the event was the unveiling of the statue by the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, Oba. (Dr.) Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, as well as eminent sons and daughters of Egbaland in attendance.