The Oyo State Government has officially announced Prince Abimbola Akeem Owoade as the 46th Alaafin of Oyo, succeeding the late Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III, who passed away on April 22, 2022.
Born in 1978 into the Owoade-Agunloye royal family of the Agure Compound in Oyo Town, Prince Owoade’s educational journey began at Baptist High School in Saki, Oyo State, where he completed his secondary education in 1992.
He then pursued a National Diploma in Mechanical Engineering at the Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro (1994–1997), followed by a Higher National Diploma in the same field from The Polytechnic, Ibadan (1999–2001).
Seeking further academic excellence, Prince Owoade relocated to the United Kingdom, earning a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Sunderland in 2008 and a Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Northumbria University in 2012.
Professionally, Prince Owoade’s career commenced in 2002 with the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), serving as a Mechanical Intern/Planner with the Nigeria Gas Company.
He briefly worked with Oceanic Bank Plc as a teller from 2003 to 2004 before moving to Canada, where he established himself as a successful businessman.
The selection process for the new Alaafin was thorough, involving consultations and divinations by the Oyomesi, the traditional council of kingmakers in Oyo.
Governor Seyi Makinde’s approval of Prince Owoade’s appointment was communicated by Dotun Oyelade, the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, who expressed hopes that his reign would bring progress and harmony to the people of Oyo, strengthening the historic legacy of the Alaafin institution.
The announcement has been met with widespread acclaim, with many expressing optimism that Prince Owoade’s blend of traditional heritage and international experience will usher in a prosperous era for Oyo.
As the 46th Alaafin, Prince Owoade is expected to play a pivotal role in preserving Yoruba culture, promoting development, and fostering unity within the kingdom.
The date for his coronation ceremony is yet to be announced, but preparations are anticipated to commence shortly, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the storied history of the Oyo monarchy.
