Be cultural ambassadors, don't dilute your identity - Olowu charges students

Oba Saka Matemilola, the Olowu of Owu, has urged Ogun State students to serve as cultural ambassadors and safeguard their identity from foreign influences at the Olowu Education Pillar Youth Leadership Summit in Abeokuta. The monarch, who returned to Nigeria from the UK during the military regime of late Gen. Sani Abacha, emphasized the importance of preserving language and traditions to maintain cultural pride.

Oba Matemilola warned against diluting these essential elements, stating that our language is fundamental to who we are. He urged youths to learn leadership and responsibility now, recognizing that their influence over peers can shape society's future. Olori Cecilia Matemilola encouraged students to make books their friends and pursue knowledge relentlessly, highlighting that learning is not solely about financial gain but also personal growth.

Daniel Idowu, a Special Assistant on Education to Governor Dapo Abiodun, commended the initiative, noting its potential to nurture youths, foster responsibility, and enhance student involvement in society. Facilitator Winner Ogogo urged students to adopt non-violent responses to conflict and embrace peace at all times, emphasizing that conflict is inevitable but different from violence, and achieving peace demands deliberate choices over confrontation.