The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Abdulhakeem Owoade, accompanied by his wife, Olori Abiwumi, and a delegation of traditional rulers from Oyo State, paid a courtesy visit to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Friday.
The 46th Alaafin was joined by prominent political figures and business leaders from Oyo State, including Senator Yunus Akintunde; House of Representatives member Akeem Adeyemi; renowned architect Abdulwasiu Adebisi; engineer Idris Adeoye, among others.
Welcoming the delegation, President Tinubu emphasized the vital role traditional institutions play in national development and called for their continued support in executing policies that positively impact citizens’ lives.
The President congratulated the new Alaafin on his ascension to the historic throne, expressing his admiration and support:
“It is a great joy and honour for me. Your ascendancy to the throne of your forefathers is historic. It reflects the will of God and the desires of your people. I admire your foresight for development, your humility, and your dedication to preserving tradition. Like my presidency, your rise is the divine will of the Almighty God,” he stated.
President Tinubu also commended the traditional council of Oyo for the smooth and dignified transition following the passing of Oba Lamidi Adeyemi on April 22, 2022.
“You demonstrated character and discipline, even during your time in Canada. Your return and leadership offer hope for sustaining the Yoruba legacy,” he added.
He reiterated his administration’s commitment to working with traditional institutions in fostering peace, stability, and prosperity across the nation.
“Building a prosperous nation requires unity and inclusivity. Education and healthcare remain our priorities. We are also committed to upholding cultural values. Our doors are open to your collaboration,” the President affirmed.
President Tinubu acknowledged the contributions of Oyo indigenes serving in his administration, notably Ambassador Victor Adeleke, the State Chief of Protocol, and Colonel Nurudeen Alowonle Yusuf, the President’s Aide-de-Camp, who is also the king-designate of Ilemonaland in Oyun Local Government Area of Kwara State—an area with ancestral ties to Oyo.
In his remarks, Oba Owoade assured the President of the full support of the Oyo traditional council in achieving his national agenda.
“Today, I speak not only as the custodian of our culture and tradition but as a voice of my people, who are deeply honoured by your warm reception. Your respect for traditional institutions reflects your character and statesmanship,” the monarch said.
He praised President Tinubu’s political journey and achievements:
“You have won hearts as an activist, strategist, and bridge builder. Now, as our nation’s leader, Nigeria looks to you—not just for leadership, but for restoration, justice, equity, and inclusive progress. Oyo is ready. The Yoruba are ready. Nigerians are ready.”
The Alaafin also lauded the President’s bold economic reforms, infrastructure development, social welfare initiatives, youth empowerment programs, security improvements, and agricultural investments.
“National transformation cannot be achieved by government alone. It flourishes when ancient wisdom meets modern governance—when old and new institutions work hand in hand,” he concluded.
