A significant step in fostering community relations was taken as Prof. S. O. Kolawole, FNITI, the newly appointed and the fifth Director / Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria French Language Village (NFLV) made a familiarization visit to His Royal Majesty, De Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I, the 25th Akran of Badagry Kingdom, Paramount Ruler of Badagry Division and the Permanent Vice Chairman of Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs his first port of call. The revered monarch whose diverse and impactful career, according to Chief Oviavo Mobee, spanned teaching, headmastership, and journalism, received his august guest and his entourage.

Following the royal introduction, the focus shifted to the newly appointed Director/CEO, Professor Diipo Kolawole, a Professor of Translation and Interpretation Studies from Ekiti State University and Fellow, Nigeria Institute of Translators and Interpreters (FNITI), setting the stage for the core purpose of the visit, which was to formally introduce the new Director/CEO to His Royal Majesty, seek his royal blessing and consolidate the existing cordial relationship between the Inter-University Centre and the royal palace. Professor Kolawole, demonstrating his cultural awareness, began his address with a traditional Yoruba greeting to the king. He emphasized the importance of paying homage to the king, recognizing him as a father figure and a vital host in the Badagry community. He expressed gratitude to Aholu Akran for his unwavering support to the growth and development of the Nigeria French Language Village as he equally pledged to strengthen the existing relationship between the Monarch the Inter-University Centre.

The palace Chiefs, in their contribution, commended the previous Directors / CEOs and expressed hope that Professor S. O. Kolawole would continue the legacy of excellence. They emphasized the importance of inclusivity, urging that the Badagry community be given priority in opportunities and privileges acruing from the Nigeria French Language Village. Highlighting the role of palace Chiefs in inter-facing with tourists, they equally requested sponsorship for Chiefs to participate in French language proficiency courses.

The familiarization visit concluded with heartfelt prayers for Prof. S. O. Kolawole, the Director / Chief Executive Officer. This event solidified the bond between the Nigeria French Language Village and the Akran’s royal palace, promising a future of continued collaboration and mutual benefit.