A new king was crowned in Oyo on April 5, 2025. Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I became the 46th Alaafin of Oyo. The coronation was a momentous event, marking a new chapter in Yoruba history. It followed the presentation of the staff of office by Governor Seyi Makinde, confirming the new ruler after the 50-year reign of the late Alaafin, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi. His reign symbolized the strength of the Yoruba people.
A Legacy in the Making
Oba Owoade’s ascension was significant. It happened during a period of rapid global change and transformation in Nigeria. The late Alaafin was a symbol of unity and guidance through times of turbulence. His passing left a void, but people of Oyo and the Yoruba nation had high hopes for the new king.
Oba Owoade was born 47 years ago into a prominent family in Oyo. His upbringing and education reflected his heritage. He completed his secondary education at Baptist High School in Saki, near Oyo. He studied Mechanical Engineering at Federal Polytechnic Ilaro and The Polytechnic Ibadan. After completing his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) at Nigeria Gas Company in 2002, he briefly worked at Oceanic Bank.
Oba Owoade’s ambition was boundless. He earned two Bachelor’s degrees in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Sunderland and Northumbria University. He became a certified Project Management Professional (PMP) in 2015.
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The new king carved a successful international career. He worked as a Planning Engineer for Oil Reach in the UK. He then became a Project Coordinator at Manitoba Hydro in Canada. Oba Owoade was a passionate philanthropist and entrepreneur. His real estate and financial services business thrived in Manitoba. He used his success to give back. His focus was on education and youth empowerment.
As the coronation ceremony unfolded, dignitaries from around the world gathered in Oyo. Professor Tunji Olaopa, Chairman of the Federal Civil Service Commission, attended the historic occasion. He delivered a powerful speech praising Oba Owoade’s ascension. He called it a significant step in the Yoruba renaissance. “This is not just the ascension of a king,” he said, “but the ascension of a visionary leader.” He added that Oba Owoade would lead Yoruba leadership into the future.
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As celebrations continued, Bode Durojaiye urged the people of Oyo to celebrate joyfully but with moderation. He emphasized peace and collaboration for community development. He stressed that both infrastructure and trust were key to progress.
Oba Owoade I began his reign facing challenges but with many opportunities. Oyo stands at a crossroads between tradition and modernity. Many hope the new Alaafin will balance these demands. The coronation sparked optimism, blending youthful energy with cultural heritage.
As the sun set on April 5th, 2025, Oyo Town celebrated. People were hopeful Oba Owoade’s reign would bring peace, progress, and a strengthening of Yoruba culture
