Ondo Traditional Leader Urges Patience, Peace Amid Hardship

A traditional titleholder, the Sajowa of Isoyi Afa, Okeagbe-Akoko in Ondo State, High Chief Steve Oluwatoyin Akinyele,  has appealed to Nigerians to remain patient, peaceful and hopeful despite the prevailing economic hardship and insecurity in the country.

Akinyele made the call during his coronation thanksgiving and birthday celebration held in Abuja yesterday, where he reflected on his personal journey to traditional leadership, business growth and community service, attributing his success to divine grace and perseverance.

Commenting on the rising economic challenges affecting many Nigerian households, he acknowledged the difficult realities facing the citizens but encouraged them not to lose faith.

“The country is not smiling, but what I would say to anybody facing challenges today is that you should focus on God because He is the ultimate. You must be focused, determined and set goals for yourself,” he said.

He stressed that patience and determination remain essential virtues for navigating difficult periods, adding that many successful people have overcome challenges through persistence and hard work.

According to him, while economic realities have changed over the years, Nigerians must continue to build resilience and maintain hope for a better future.

The traditional leader also called for peace and improved security across the country, noting that insecurity remains one of the major challenges confronting national development.

“God should give us sound health in this country and peace. All this insecurity we are facing, God should help us because we cannot do it alone,” he added.

On his emergence as Sajowa of Isoyi Afa, Akinyele disclosed that he initially had little interest in taking up the traditional title, saying the responsibility came through family consultations, community pressure and encouragement from spiritual leaders.

He explained that after several discussions within his family and community leaders, he eventually accepted the responsibility despite his earlier reluctance.

According to him, becoming one of the leaders within the community remains a privilege and a responsibility he does not take lightly.

“For somebody like me to be among the decision-makers in the community, I think it is a great privilege. It is by the grace of God because personally, I did not think I deserved it,” he said.

Akinyele also recounted some of the struggles that shaped his journey, including business challenges, financial difficulties and the sacrifices required to build his photography business and expand his professional network over the years.

He particularly appreciated his wife for supporting his dreams, describing her role in his personal and business growth as invaluable.

“Through every challenge, decision, success and setback, you have been my strength and source of inspiration,” he said while paying tribute to his wife during the celebration.

The traditional leader further expressed gratitude to family members, church leaders, mentors and friends whom he said contributed significantly to his growth and achievements.

The event attracted family members, community leaders, church members, friends and well-wishers who gathered to celebrate his coronation thanksgiving and birthday ceremony, with prayers offered for peace, prosperity and continued progress in the community.