Prince Abimbola Owoade: The New Alaafin of Oyo and His Vision for a Prosperous Kingdom

The long-awaited announcement has finally arrived – Prince Abimbola Akeem Owoade is the new Alaafin of Oyo.

Following a series of consultations, divinations, and recommendations by the Oyomesi, the revered kingmakers of Oyo, the Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, has officially approved the appointment. This marks the end of a period of uncertainty and division that followed the passing of the highly respected Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III in April 2022.

Prince Owoade, a man of royal heritage, professional excellence, and global exposure, is now poised to lead the ancient Oyo Kingdom into a new era of prosperity, cultural renaissance, and economic growth. Below, we explore 13 significant things about the new Alaafin of Oyo and his ambitious plans for the kingdom’s future.

1. A Royal Legacy

Prince Abimbola Akeem Owoade hails from the prestigious Owoade-Agunloye royal family of Oyo. He is one of the surviving children of Pa Rasaki Ibiyosi Owoade, and his lineage is traced directly to Aremo Aderounmu Iyanda Owoade of Agure Compound. This deep-rooted royal heritage positions him as a rightful heir to the Alaafin throne and a leader entrusted with the rich history and cultural traditions of the Oyo Kingdom.

2. Educational Foundations

Owoade’s educational journey began in Nigeria, where he completed his secondary education at Baptist High School in Saki, Oyo State. His academic pursuits led him to the Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro, and The Polytechnic, Ibadan, where he obtained a National Diploma and Higher National Diploma in Mechanical Engineering. Determined to expand his horizons, Owoade later pursued higher education in the United Kingdom, earning a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Sunderland and a Master of Science in the same field from Northumbria University.

3. Professional Experience Across Continents

Prince Owoade’s career spans multiple continents and industries. He began his professional journey as a Mechanical Intern at Nigeria Gas Company before moving to the banking sector at Oceanic Bank International Plc. in Warri. His career took him to the United Kingdom, where he worked as a Planning Engineer at Oil Reach Company in Glasgow. Currently, he is a Project Coordinator at Manitoba Hydro, Canada’s most considerable electric power and natural gas utility provider. His diverse experience speaks to his adaptability, leadership, and global perspective.

4. Entrepreneurship and Business Acumen

Prince Owoade is not only a seasoned professional but also an accomplished entrepreneur. He is the president of 100279 Manitoba Limited, a real estate investment and financial services company in Manitoba, Canada. His entrepreneurial ventures have proven successful, showcasing his ability to navigate complex business landscapes and generate economic growth. This expertise is expected to play a crucial role in Oyo’s economic development under his leadership.

5. Philanthropic Efforts

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Prince Owoade has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to philanthropy. He has supported various charitable causes, mainly focusing on widows, orphans, and the underprivileged in Nigeria and Canada. His efforts to give back to society reflect his belief in the importance of uplifting others and addressing social challenges.

6. A Vision for Oyo’s Economic Growth

One of Prince Owoade’s primary goals as Alaafin is to modernize Oyo’s economy. He plans to establish industrial parks to attract local and foreign investors, create jobs, and boost regional commerce. Additionally, he aims to empower the youth through vocational training programs to equip them with the skills needed to succeed in today’s job market. By partnering with global organizations such as the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Owoade hopes to reduce unemployment and drive sustainable development in Oyo.

7. Cultural Preservation and Innovation

Prince Owoade is deeply committed to preserving and promoting Yoruba culture and heritage. He envisions establishing a cultural museum in Oyo that will house Yoruba artefacts and serve as a hub for promoting the Yoruba language and traditions. Owoade also aims to work with international organizations to repatriate Yoruba cultural treasures taken during the colonial era, ensuring that these invaluable pieces of history are returned to their rightful home.

8. Youth Empowerment

Prince Owoade’s leadership philosophy is rooted in youth empowerment. He believes that the younger generation holds the key to Oyo’s future, so he plans to launch programs that will provide them with the tools they need to succeed. His initiatives will focus on education, skill development, and entrepreneurship, ensuring Oyo’s youth have the opportunities and support necessary to thrive.

9. Modernizing the Alaafin’s Palace

Prince Owoade plans to modernize Alaafin’s palace while preserving its cultural significance, which is in line with his vision for progress. He intends to integrate modern governance principles into the palace’s operations, making it a more efficient and functional space for administrative duties and cultural activities. This modernization will ensure that the palace remains a symbol of Oyo’s historical and cultural legacy while adapting to the present demands.

10. Global Diplomacy and Cultural Advocacy

As part of his broader vision for Oyo, Prince Owoade seeks to foster international partnerships to elevate Oyo’s global status. By collaborating with universities, cultural institutions, and international organizations, he aims to promote the Yoruba language, arts, and traditions worldwide. His diplomatic efforts will help raise awareness of the Oyo Kingdom’s rich cultural heritage and attract global attention to the kingdom’s development initiatives.

11. A Unifying Leader

Prince Owoade is known for his leadership qualities, which include humility, dedication, and a deep sense of responsibility. His selection as Alaafin was supported unanimously by the Oyomesi, the royal kingmakers, who recognized his ability to unite the people of Oyo and lead the kingdom with integrity. Under his reign, Oyo is expected to experience a period of stability, growth, and social cohesion.

12. Commitment to Education

Education has always been a key priority for Prince Owoade, and as Alaafin, he plans to continue advocating for educational reforms in Oyo. He aims to collaborate with local and international educational institutions to create programs fostering knowledge and innovation. Owoade hopes to create a generation of leaders who will continue to carry Oyo’s legacy forward by promoting educational excellence.

13. A Legacy of Service

At the heart of Prince Owoade’s leadership is a commitment to service. He views the position of Alaafin as a sacred responsibility to his people and his ancestors. With his blend of global experience, technical expertise, and cultural pride, he is poised to leave a lasting legacy that will benefit Oyo for future generations.

In conclusion, the emergence of Prince Abimbola Akeem Owoade as the new Alaafin of Oyo heralds a new chapter in the kingdom’s history. With his unique combination of royal heritage, educational achievements, professional expertise, and commitment to the welfare of his people, Owoade is well-positioned to lead Oyo into a future of growth, cultural renaissance, and prosperity. His reign promises to honour the past while embracing future opportunities.