Senate President Godswill Akpabio has made a strong appeal for unity between the Remo and Ijebu communities, describing it as the essential foundation for the successful creation of the proposed Ijebu-Remo State. He delivered this message as a special guest at the grand 2025 Remo Day celebration held at the Akarigbo Pavilion in Sagamu.
A Call for Collaboration and Peace
Addressing a massive crowd of Remo indigenes and dignitaries, Senator Akpabio emphasized that harmony is non-negotiable for achieving the collective aspiration of statehood. The event, themed “One People, Diverse Cultures, One Identity,” provided a fitting backdrop for his call to action.
He praised the Remo people for their renowned industriousness and entrepreneurial spirit, which he noted is evident in the concentration of factories and industries in their region. "I want to urge the Remo people to continue to live in peace," Akpabio stated. "Remo is blessed with hardworking industrialists. I want you to work closely with the Ijebu people towards the creation of Ijebu State."
He assured them of support from the National Assembly, adding a pointed remark about the location of a future state capital. "We at the National Assembly will support you. I will not speak about where the capital will be located, but you already know. However, the capital must be in a peaceful environment."
Beyond Celebration: Reflection and National Unity
Akpabio highlighted that Remo Day is more than a cultural festival; it is a vital platform for strategic thinking about homeland development. His presence, he said, symbolized the unity of Nigeria across ethnic lines, stressing that the nation's diversity should be harnessed as a strength.
The Senate President also addressed broader national issues, assuring Nigerians that the prevailing insecurity would soon be a thing of the past. He credited President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for working assiduously to tackle security challenges and for courageously steering a new course for national development despite difficulties. He pledged the Senate's continued collaboration with the executive arm of government.
In his remarks, Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, echoed the sentiment of unity, describing Remoland as a land of illustrious achievers. He warned that societies which lose touch with their cultural roots risk losing their identity. “Remo is far more than a geographical expression; it is a people defined by a rich and enduring history,” Governor Abiodun declared.
Infrastructure and Economic Promises
Governor Abiodun used the occasion to showcase his administration's projects in Remoland, including the Sagamu–Iperu–Ode–Sapaade Road. He then made a significant economic announcement: international cargo operations will commence at the Gateway International Airport next month.
He described this development as a major milestone poised to transform logistics, generate thousands of jobs, and position Remo as a leading agro-processing and export hub in West Africa. Akpabio had earlier praised this airport, calling it the best in Nigeria.
The Akarigbo and Paramount Ruler of Remoland, Oba Babatunde Ajayi, explained that the vision of Remo Day is to celebrate, preserve, and project Remo culture globally. He reaffirmed the commitment of his people to work with all stakeholders for the actualisation of Ijebu-Remo State and thanked Governor Abiodun for partnering to construct the new palace pavilion.
The second edition of Remo Day was a colourful affair, featuring masquerade displays, homage by age grades and associations to the Akarigbo, and the ceremonial opening of the new pavilion. It attracted dignitaries from across Nigeria, underscoring the cultural and political significance of the event.
