*As Okaeben restates support for Monarch’s cultural initiatives
The Oba of Benin, Ewuare II, has commended Governor Monday Okpebholo for his efforts in developing Edo State, especially with the construction of flyovers and other infrastructure projects.
Honourable Commissioner for Arts, Culture & Creative Economy, Chris Okaeben flanked on his right by Chief Oliha of Benin Kingdom (In White cap, Head of Uzama and other Chiefs) during the former’s visit to the Benin Monarch.
The monarch expressed this commendation during a visit by the Honourable Commissioner for Arts, Culture & Creative Economy, Chris Okaeben, to his palace.
“Governor Okpebholo’s administration is doing well in the infrastructure development of the State and I am impressed seeing the ongoing construction of the flyovers, something that is very unique”, the Monarch said.
The Omo n’Oba congratulated Hon. Chris Okaeben on his new role as Commissioner, expressing gratitude to God and the ancestors for ensuring his appointment.
The monarch charged the Commissioner not to leave any stone unturned by ensuring that the Ministry repositioned especially in the preservation and promotion of the rich cultural heritage of Edo State.
L-R: Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Arts, Culture & Creative Economy, Iryn Omogoriuwa Esq.; Hon. Commissioner for Arts, Culture & Creative Economy, Chris Okaeben and Dr. Iziengbe Pat Ebuka-Onuoha from Dept. of History & International Studies, University of Benin during the Commissioner’s visit to the Oba of Benin on Tuesday.
Speaking earlier, the Commissioner told the Monarch he was in the palace to formally inform and ask for the Majesty’s blessings on his appointment.
“I am here to pay your Majesty my warmest regards and seek your blessings for my new role,” he said.
He praised the Oba’s role in achieving peace and tranquility in the State noting that without peace, no society can thrive in an atmosphere of crises
“Your role as our royal father has brought the much needed peace in our State hence the present administration finds its convenient to drive sustainable infrastructure development across the State,” the Commissioner noted.
He expressed concern over the deplorable condition of some Benin heritage sites, which have become refuse dumping grounds and emphasized the need to preserve these iconic symbols of Edo’s rich culture.
“Our heritage sites are being turned into refuse dumping sites, and this is worrisome to both the government and cultural custodians of these landmarks.
Right now, the government is taking serious steps to addressing the menace and put the heritage sites to its proper shapes.
My Majesty the current administration under Governor Monday Okpebholo Edo State government will continue to support the monarch’s cultural preservation efforts,” Okaeben said.
The visit of the Commissioner to the palace of Oba of Benin underscores a significant moment in the efforts to strengthen relationship between the government and traditional institutions for sustainable development.
The Honourable Commissioner was accompanied on the visit by the Permanent Secretary, Iryn Omorogiuwa Esq., Directors and other staff of the Ministry.
