Chief (Mrs.) Tawa Sarafadeen-Alli, wife of the Oyo State All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate, Oloye Sarafadeen Abiodun Alli, has called for stronger partnerships between Oyo State, Nigerians in the diaspora and prospective investors in France.
She made the call while speaking at the Yoruba Cultural Fiesta and France Prominent Awards held recently in Marseille, France, where she joined cultural leaders, dignitaries and members of the Nigerian community to celebrate Yoruba heritage and promote unity across cultures.
Tawa said Oyo State, with its rich history, vibrant culture, talented people and vast economic potential, was well positioned to benefit from strategic partnerships with individuals, organisations and investors in France.
She identified education, healthcare, agriculture, entrepreneurship, tourism, culture and innovation as key areas where such partnerships could create opportunities, stimulate investment and contribute to sustainable development.
According to her, stronger ties between Oyo State and France should go beyond cultural exchange to embrace economic cooperation, investment, knowledge sharing and other mutually beneficial ventures.
She therefore encouraged Nigerians in France, their friends, business associates and other prospective investors to explore the opportunities available in Oyo State and consider contributing to its development.
“Oyo State is blessed with a proud history, vibrant tradition, talented people and enormous potentials. We welcome partnership in education, healthcare, agriculture, entrepreneurship, tourism, culture and innovation,” she said.
“Tell your people to come and invest in Oyo State. Let us continue to build meaningful connections between Oyo State, Nigeria and our friends in France for mutual growth and shared prosperity.”
Her message, she noted, was not only an invitation to Nigerians abroad but also to French individuals, institutions and businesses willing to establish meaningful partnerships with the state.
Tawa also urged Nigerians in the diaspora to continue serving as worthy ambassadors of the country, commending their contributions to their host communities and their sustained connection with Nigeria.
“Your contributions to your community here in France and continued connection to home are deeply appreciated,” she said.
Speaking on the significance of the cultural gathering, Tawa described the Yoruba Cultural Fiesta as a powerful expression of cultural diversity, peace, respect, collaboration, tolerance and the common good of humanity.
She stressed that cultural diversity should be celebrated as a strength, urging Nigerians and people from different backgrounds to promote peaceful coexistence and mutual respect.
“As Nigerians, let us renew our commitment to peace, respect, collaboration, tolerance and the common good of humanity. Our cultural diversity is a strength, and by celebrating and respecting our different traditions, we can build stronger communities and a more united world,” she said.
Tawa attended the colourful gathering alongside His Royal Majesty, Oba Lanlege, the Oba of Ota Awori Kingdom, and other distinguished personalities.
She commended the organisers of the Yoruba Cultural Fiesta and France Prominent Awards for creating a platform that celebrates Yoruba heritage while promoting unity, cultural exchange and international friendship.
The event brought together members of the Yoruba community, cultural leaders, dignitaries and guests from diverse backgrounds, providing an avenue not only to celebrate Yoruba identity but also to strengthen relationships between communities and foster greater cooperation across borders.
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