In the Yoruba history, the Alaafin of Oyo has always been more than just a monarch. He is a custodian of culture, a symbol of spiritual authority, and a towering emblem of the storied Oyo Empire, one of the most powerful pre-colonial states in West Africa. The Alaafin’s throne, steeped in centuries of tradition, diplomacy, and resistance, has commanded reverence not just within Yoruba land but across the broader Nigerian cultural landscape. From the grandeur of the old Oyo metropolis to the present-day Oyo town, the Alaafin remains a pivotal figure in safeguarding heritage while navigating modern realities.
Now, after a long interregnum following the passing of Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III in 2022, the stool of the Alaafin has found a new occupant in Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade. His emergence marks a defining moment, one that blends legacy and modernity, tradition and global exposure. Below are some facts about the new Alaafin, Oba Owoade, a leader poised to usher in a new chapter for Oyo Kingdom.
1. Oba Abimbola Owoade hails from the esteemed Owoade-Agunloye royal family of the Agure Compound in Oyo town.
2. He was born in 1978 and he is a direct descendant of Aremo Aderounmu Iyanda Owoade, anchoring his claim to the throne in deep ancestral lineage.
3. His father was employed by the Oyo North Agricultural Development Programme (ONADEP), where he aided efforts to enhance agricultural productivity in the Oke-Ogun area.
4. The monarch’s early academic journey began at Baptist High School, Saki, where he completed his secondary education in 1992.
5. He later pursued studies in mechanical engineering, earning both National and Higher National Diplomas from The Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro, and The Polytechnic, Ibadan, respectively.
6. In 2002, he fulfilled his National Youth Service Corps obligations at Nigeria Gas Company, where he served as a mechanical intern and planner.
7. Following his NYSC, he took up a role at Oceanic Bank International Plc in Warri, Delta State, working as a bank teller from 2003 to 2004.
8. He holds a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Sunderland and Northumbria University.
9.Demonstrating a penchant for leadership and strategic execution, he obtained certification in Project Management (PMP) in 2015—solidifying his credentials as a seasoned professional.
10. His career spans continents and industries. He has worked as a Planning Engineer at Oil Reach Company in Glasgow, UK, and currently serves as a Project Coordinator at Manitoba Hydro in Canada.
11. Oba Owoade is widely regarded for his philanthropic spirit. His passion for giving back is evident in various initiatives focused on uplifting underprivileged communities and supporting educational advancement.
12. Despite his international exposure, Oba Owoade remains deeply connected to his roots. His worldview is shaped by a blend of Western education and Yoruba tradition—qualities that uniquely position him to navigate the dual demands of cultural preservation and modern governance.
13. As Alaafin, he is expected to champion peace, socio-cultural harmony, and economic development within the Oyo Kingdom. His reign is anticipated to be one that inspires unity across different communities and generations.
14. His official appointment was endorsed by Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, following a long-awaited selection process. His emergence has been met with optimism and celebration across Oyo and beyond.
15. With his blend of academic brilliance, corporate experience, royal heritage, and humanitarian outlook, Oba Owoade represents a bridge between history and hope. His reign is seen as a turning point for the Oyo throne where ancient legacy meets forward-thinking leadership.
