The Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty (HRM), Oba Ewuare II, has accepted his nomination for the national award of Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR) by the Federal government.
The rare honour, which is part of activities to mark Nigeria’s 62nd Independence Day anniversary, would be formally conferred on the monarch by President Muhammadu Buhari.
The ward is conferred on citizens for their contributions to the development of the nation.
HRM. Sule Idaiye, Imma of Somorika, at the weekend presented the letter of nomination to Oba Ewuare II in the latter’s palace in Benin City, Edo state Capital.
This was contained in a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to Oba of Benin, Mr. Iguobaro Osaigbovo.
The statement explained that, “there was a regal splendour and clasping when the personal letter dated 16th September 2022 was read in the presence of Palace functionaries, Benin Palace Chiefs, Dukes, Royal family and guests who came to pay homage to the traditional ruler.”
According to Osaigbovo, “The award of recognition which is slated for October 11, is indeed a banner year of celebration for HRM, Oba Ewuare II and the Benin kingdom because it coincides with the month of the Royal father’s 6th Coronation anniversary.
“The recognition is also coming within a calendar year after the Nigeria High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Ambassador Sarafa Ishola, presented two repatriated artefacts to the great Benin throne via a presidential directives.”
The statement quoted the monarch as saying, “This announcement has come and we are grateful to God Almighty and our ancestors. I am just as excited as you are. We are happy about the news. I want to use this opportunity to thank Mr. President.”
