Feature – Page 9

EKTV, the leading broadcasting station in Ekiti State, recently had the pleasure of hosting a captivating interview with Sola Shittu, the visionary behind the Proudly Ekiti Project. The interview shed light on the project’s objectives, its impact on the community, and the essence of fostering a sense of pride and unity among the people of Ekiti State.

The Proudly Ekiti Project: Celebrating Ekiti State’s Heritage:

Sola Shittu, a passionate advocate for promoting cultural heritage, launched the Proudly Ekiti Project as an initiative to highlight the unique qualities and achievements of Ekiti State. The project aims to foster a deep sense of pride and unity among Ekiti indigenes, both at home and in the diaspora, by showcasing the state’s rich cultural heritage, history, landmarks, and notable individuals.

In the Interview:

During the EKTV interview, Sola Shittu eloquently articulated the inspiration behind the Proudly Ekiti Project. He emphasized the importance of preserving and promoting Ekiti State’s heritage and creating a platform to celebrate the achievements and contributions of its residents.

Unveiling Ekiti State’s Hidden Gems:

One of the primary goals of the Proudly Ekiti Project is to unearth and showcase the hidden gems within Ekiti State, and to promote developmental virtues among the youth in the state. Sola Shittu shared his passion for unearthing the untold stories and lesser-known attractions that make the state truly unique. By shedding light on these hidden treasures, the project aims to attract tourism, foster economic growth, and strengthen the pride of Ekiti indigenes.

Empowering Ekiti’s Youth:

Sola Shittu discussed the integral role of the youth in the Proudly Ekiti Project. He highlighted the importance of empowering young people to take pride in their heritage and actively participate in preserving and promoting Ekiti State’s culture. Through mentorship programs, educational initiatives, and creative opportunities, the project aims to inspire and engage the younger generation.

He spoke of his previous and on-going efforts in promoting Ekiti Youths through various means, including IGNITE, a TV show he hosted for many years that has as part of its focus, the creative talents in the Ekiti State.

The Impact and Future of the Proudly Ekiti Project:

Sola Shittu emphasized the positive impact that the Proudly Ekiti Project has already made within the community. The project has sparked a renewed sense of pride among Ekiti indigenes, encouraging them to showcase their culture, talents, and entrepreneurial spirit. Looking to the future, Sola Shittu expressed his vision of expanding the project’s reach through partnerships, events, and collaborations that highlight Ekiti State’s vibrant culture and foster sustainable development.

As the Proudly Ekiti Project continues to gain momentum, it promises to strengthen the bonds among the people of Ekiti State, empower the youth, and attract attention to the untapped potential and hidden gems within the state.

In a glorious celebration of Ekiti State’s rich cultural heritage and remarkable virtues, especially as the Land of Honour, renowned artist and youth advocate, Sola Shittu also known as Oshara has held a listening party / press conference to announce his captivating new song.
The event, held at prestigious Mutual House, saw the presence of esteemed dignitaries, including the Speaker and Deputy Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, who joined the chorus of admiration for Oshara’s musical tribute to the state.

A Melodious Ode to Ekiti State:
Sola Shittu ‘Oshara’, widely recognized for his soulful and thought-provoking compositions, unveiled his latest creation titled “Proudly Ekiti.” This enchanting song served as a tribute to the virtues that define Ekiti State and its people. With heartfelt lyrics and captivating melodies alongside a crisp video, Oshara masterfully conveyed the essence of Ekiti State’s identity, leaving the audience awestruck and filled with a deep sense of pride. He condemned the vices plaguing the society, especially advanced fee fraud popularly called ‘Yahoo’, while stressing the importance of honesty and hardwork as hallmarks of Ekiti people.

A Gathering of Distinguished Guests:
The grand event drew a distinguished gathering of dignitaries, with the Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly Rt Hon. Funminiyi Afuye, taking center stage. Also present were Hon Akeem Jamiu, Deputy Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly; Hon Yemisi Ayokunle Chairman, House Committee on Media and Publicity, Ekiti State House of Assembly; Comissioner for Youths and Sports, Ekiti State Hon Michael Awopetu; Deputy Director of the National Orientation Agency in Ekiti State; The representative of the Ekiti State Commissioner of Police; the Special Adviser to the Governor on Values Orientation; Alhaji Dauda Lawal, Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of Ekiti Rising Magazine; Mrs Motunde Fajuyi, Political Stalward and Youth Advocate; and a cross section of youth advocates and creative in the state. Their presence underscored the importance of the occasion and the appreciation for Oshara’s artistic talent.

Reinforcing Ekiti State’s Cultural Identity:
The visuals and sound of ‘Proudly Ekiti’ resonated deeply with the audience, igniting their emotions and reinforcing their love for Ekiti State. The lyrics of the song beautifully highlighted the state’s cultural heritage, natural beauty, and the warmth of its people. As the melodies filled the air, a palpable sense of unity and pride enveloped the venue, reaffirming the strong bond among the residents of Ekiti State.

Embracing the Virtues of Ekiti State:
The Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt Hon. Funminiyi Afuye, commended Oshara’s ability to capture the essence of Ekiti State through his extraordinary composition. He expressed his admiration for the artist’s talent and the profound message conveyed in his music. The song stands as a testament to the strength, resilience, and cultural richness that define Ekiti State, inspiring residents to cherish and uphold the virtues that make their state truly exceptional.

A Labor of Love and Gratitude:
Oshara expressed his deep gratitude for the overwhelming support and enthusiasm shown by the audience. He shared his honor in celebrating Ekiti State through his music, emphasizing the importance of preserving and promoting its virtues. He urged everyone to embrace and nurture the qualities that make Ekiti State unique, fostering a brighter future for all.

‘Proudly Ekiti’ is not just a song. It serves as a powerful testament to the virtues of Ekiti State. With its soul-stirring melodies and heartfelt lyrics, the composition not only celebrates the cultural heritage but also reinforces the unity and pride among the residents, while promoting the virtues of hardwork and self development. Oshara’s talent and dedication to promoting Ekiti State’s virtues have left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who had the privilege of experiencing his messages via various platforms. As the echoes of the song continue to resonate, let us cherish and uphold the virtues that make Ekiti State an exceptional place to call home.