PRESERVING HISTORY: Deji of Akureland commends Olawande over palace beautification projects

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By Dayo Johnson Akure

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Akure’s cultural landscape has gained renewed attention following the inauguration of the redesigned entrance to the Deji’s palace, a project funded by the Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande.

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The new entrance was unveiled on Saturday in Akure, the Ondo State capital, in an event that drew the commendation of the Deji of Akureland, Oba Aladetoyinbo Aladelusi.

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Oba Aladelusi described the intervention of the Youth Minister, as a significant contribution to the preservation of Akure’s heritage and a fitting upgrade for the historic palace.

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He said the project, executed with the support of the 10th Anniversary Coronation Committee, forms part of ongoing efforts to renovate and beautify the palace.

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According to the monarch, the redesigned entrance will go beyond aesthetics, as it will help project the palace and its rich history to residents, visitors and the younger generation.

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The traditional ruler thanked Olawande for identifying with the traditional institution and for supporting a landmark project that has enhanced the outlook of one of the city’s most important symbols.

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He urged other Akure indigenes, public officials and corporate organisations to support similar initiatives aimed at safeguarding the city’s historical and cultural assets.

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Oba Aladelusi noted that preserving the palace should be seen as a collective responsibility, particularly as urban development continues to reshape the city.

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He expressed hope that the project would inspire further interventions to preserve other sections of the palace and promote Akure’s cultural identity.

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The monarch added that the initiative demonstrates how individuals and public office holders can give back to their communities by supporting projects that protect history and culture.

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Speaking on his motivation, Olawande said the decision was informed by the historical and cultural importance of the palace to the Akure people.

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He described the palace as more than the residence of the Deji, noting that it remains a living symbol of the history, traditions and identity of the people.

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“I believe that the Deji’s Palace is not just a building; it is a symbol of who we are as Akure people. It carries our history, our culture and the story of generations before us,” he said.

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“I deemed it necessary to renovate and redesign the palace because we cannot continue to talk about preserving our heritage while allowing important symbols of that heritage to deteriorate.”

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Olawande stressed that the redesign was not meant to change the identity of the palace but to give it an environment that reflects its importance while retaining its cultural character.

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The Deji’s Palace, which has housed generations of traditional rulers, is recognised for its historical, architectural and cultural significance and was declared a national historical monument in 1990.

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