Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State officially presented the staff of office to Prince Abimbola Akeem Owoade on January 12, 2025 formally installing him as the 46th Alaafin of Oyo. The event, which took place at the historic Oyo Town, was attended by dignitaries, traditional rulers, and residents, marking the commencement of a new era in the ancient kingdom.
Governor Makinde, in his address, emphasized the importance of unity and development under the new monarch’s reign. He stated, “We are confident that Oba Owoade’s ascension will usher in a period of peace, prosperity, and cultural renaissance for the Oyo Kingdom.” The governor also acknowledged the thorough selection process conducted by the Oyomesi, the traditional council of kingmakers, which led to Prince Owoade’s emergence as the Alaafin.
Prince Abimbola Owoade, born in 1978 into the royal Owoade-Agunloye family of Oyo Town, brings a wealth of experience from his extensive educational and professional background. He completed his secondary education at Baptist High School, Saki, and pursued Mechanical Engineering at The Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro, and The Polytechnic, Ibadan, obtaining both Ordinary and Higher National Diplomas. Furthering his studies in the United Kingdom, he earned a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Sunderland and Northumbria University, respectively. Professionally, Oba Owoade has held significant roles, including serving as a Project Coordinator at Manitoba Hydro in Canada.
The selection of Oba Owoade follows the passing of the former Alaafin, Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III, on April 22, 2022. The interregnum witnessed various deliberations and consultations among the Oyomesi and other stakeholders to ensure the selection of a suitable successor. Governor Makinde’s approval of Prince Owoade’s appointment was officially announced on January 10, 2025, bringing to a close the period of anticipation and setting the stage for the new monarch’s reign.
In his inaugural speech, Oba Owoade expressed gratitude to the people of Oyo and pledged to uphold the cultural heritage and traditions of the kingdom. He called for collective efforts towards the development of Oyo, stating, “Together, we shall build upon the legacy of our forefathers and strive for the advancement of our land.”
The ceremony was marked by traditional rites, cultural displays, and messages of goodwill from various quarters, all heralding a promising future for the Oyo Kingdom under the leadership of Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade.
