JUST IN: GOVERNOR MAKINDE ANNOUNCES PRINCE ABIMBOLA AKEEM OWOADE AS THE NEW ALÁÀFIN OF OYO AFTER THREE YEARS

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has officially announced Prince Abimbola Akeem Owoade as the new Alááfin of Òyó, following a three-year interregnum since the passing of Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III in 2022.

The new monarch hails from the Owoade-Agunloye royal lineage of Oyo, a distinguished family deeply rooted in the history and traditions of the ancient kingdom. Prince Owoade's emergence as the new Alááfin concludes a lengthy selection process that sought to ensure a rightful and capable successor to the revered throne.

ABOUT THE NEW ALÁÁFIN

Prince Abimbola Akeem Owoade, aged 50, is a seasoned professional, philanthropist, and visionary leader. His impressive career spans multiple continents, with notable roles as a Planning Engineer in Glasgow, UK, and Project Coordinator at Manitoba Hydro, Canada. He also presides over a real estate and financial services firm, 100279 Manitoba Limited.

An alumnus of Baptist High School, Saki, and graduate of both The Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro, and The Polytechnic, Ibadan, Prince Owoade holds a Higher National Diploma in Mechanical Engineering.

Beyond his professional achievements, the new Alááfin is renowned for his philanthropic activities and commitment to community development, making him a fitting custodian of the cultural and historical heritage of Oyo.

VISION FOR OYO

Governor Makinde highlighted Prince Owoade's plans to combine tradition and modernity, emphasizing cultural preservation, youth empowerment, and economic growth. The new monarch intends to:

Build a museum to safeguard Yoruba artifacts.

Develop industrial parks to drive economic development.

Collaborate with international organizations like the UNDP to empower the youth through vocational training.

A NEW ERA FOR OYO

Governor Makinde expressed confidence that the new Alááfin will bring stability, unity, and progress to the kingdom. He acknowledged the pivotal role the throne plays in preserving Yoruba culture and tradition, while also steering the kingdom toward modern advancements.

The announcement marks the beginning of a new chapter for the Oyo Kingdom, as the people look forward to Prince Owoade's reign with great anticipation.

Vanguard