Ben-Ber Foundation inaugurates cultural hub, children's books in memory of late kolades

A non govermental organization in Osogbo, Osun State capital, under the auspices of Ben-Ber Foundation has inaugurated a cultural hub and some children's books for the promotion of Yoruba culture and language, in memory of Late Deacon Benjamin Adeyemi Kolade and his wife Late Chief (Mrs) Bernice Alake Kolade, the late Iyalode of Osogbo land.

The cultural hub and the books were inaugurated by the Deputy Governor of the State, Mr Benedict Alabi at the residence of the Kolades in Osogbo, Osun State.

The Deputy Governor who was represented by the state Commissioner for Human Resources, Alhaja Lateefat Giwa described late Baba and Mama kolade in glowing terms and commended the children of the deceased for the unique way of remembering their parents.

The dignitaries at the event included the State chairman of the All Progressive Congress in the state, Mr Gboyega Famodu, the State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Obawale Adebisi, the former Deputy Speaker of Osun State House of Assembly, Hon. Muritala Akintunde Adegboye, Commissioner for Rural Development and Community Affairs Hon. Segun Olanibi, officials of the Osun Agency for Community and Social Development Project (CSDP), the ace broadcaster, Mr Adetoyese Shittu Alamu,

the former Commissioner for Lands, Architect Muyiwa Ige, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs, Mrs. Folakemi Adebayo, members of the State House of Assembly and some Local Government chairmen in the State.

Also, the Director of the State Library as well as the Director of the National Library in the State were in attendance amongst many other important dignitaries that graced the occasion.

The First child of the family, Mrs Abokede Aderonke Funmi in her remarks said the foundation will provide training on economical viable vocations that will promote Yoruba culture in terms of weaving of Aso oke, making of Adire, designing of clothes as well as making headgear and caps.

Abokede said that there must be efforts to ensure that Yoruba language does not go into extinction. "To this effect, the foundation has embarked on

publication of children's books that will promote Yoruba language and cultural heritage".

Mrs. Abokede said Ben-Ber Foundation will complement the efforts of the State Government of Osun in building inclusive society and giving voice to the voiceless.

She urged the government to dedicate a day to wearing of Adire attire so as to inculcate culture in the citizens and also promote Osun State's type of Adire.

The children of Special Schools (Primary and Secondary) in Osogbo electrified the gathering with various performances as they displayed their talents.

Abokede presented valuable gifts to some children with exceptional performances including Awe Oluwatobiloba Michael and Amilola Onifade.