During the Yoruba Day celebration in London, organized by the pan-Yoruba group Think Yoruba First, Oba Francis Alao, the Olugbon of Orile-Igbon in Oyo State, emphasized the crucial role of unity among the southwest governors in transforming the region's economy.

The festival, themed 'The Importance of Indigenous Language in Technological Advancement,' commemorated the 137th anniversary of the conclusion of the Kiriji War, which was the world's longest internecine war and occurred in what is now Southwestern Nigeria.

Oba Francis Alao highlighted the symbolism of unity and peace represented by the festival. He also mentioned the intention to foster economic development in the south by establishing a symbolic memorial site, aligned with the objectives of the Minister of Tourism and Culture.

Drawing parallels to cultural sites like Mecca in Saudi Arabia and Jerusalem, the Olugbon of Orile-Igbon proposed the transformation of historical monuments into economic hubs.

He stressed the need for unity among all southwest governors, emphasizing that their collaboration is vital for the rapid economic growth of the region, as historical divisions within Yoruba communities persist, often fueled by external influences.

Dr. Bukola Adeniji, the coordinator of Think Yoruba First, revealed the group's ambitious plan to construct a historic monument similar to the George Washington Monument in the United States. She noted that the Imesi Ile Council of Elders was aware of the proposal to reconstruct the Kiriji War and Peace Memorial.

The project aims to connect the areas where the Kiriji War took place, including Imesi Ile, Igbajo, and Oke Imesi, by constructing a connecting road. The monument will feature the faces of ancestors, cast onto the mountains, similar to Mount Rushmore in the USA.