Tinubu Charges New Alaafin of Oyo to Champion Peace, Culture, and Unity

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged the newly crowned 46th Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, to use his royal position to promote peace, uphold cultural identity, and support governance in Nigeria.

Speaking through the Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, at the monarch’s coronation ceremony on Saturday, President Tinubu described the occasion as a significant moment not just for the people of Oyo, but for the entire Yoruba race and Nigeria as a whole.

The President emphasized that the Alaafin’s throne goes beyond royalty—it is a symbol of Yoruba pride, resilience, and cultural wisdom. He expressed confidence that Oba Owoade’s leadership would further strengthen unity and progress across the kingdom and the country.

“Kabiyesi, your ascension to this revered throne comes at a critical time in our nation’s history,” Tinubu stated. “Nigeria is navigating complex challenges, and traditional institutions like the Alaafin’s stool remain vital in fostering peace, promoting cultural identity, and supporting governance.”

President Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s respect for traditional rulers and their role in nation-building, and assured the monarch of his continued support for initiatives that preserve Nigeria’s diverse cultural heritage.

Highlighting Oyo State’s significance in the “Renewed Hope Agenda,” Tinubu noted key focus areas such as power supply, road infrastructure, agriculture, youth empowerment, and education.

“We will continue to engage our youth through opportunities in technology, entrepreneurship, and vocational training,” the President added. “Most importantly, the government is committed to working closely with traditional rulers to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all Nigerians.”

Tinubu also called on the people of Oyo to unite behind their new monarch and support his vision for peace and development.

“Let us remember the words of the late Alaafin, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III: ‘A kingdom thrives when its people are united in purpose.’”

In a touching tribute to the late Oba Adeyemi III, Tinubu described him as a “fierce custodian of Yoruba traditions,” who revived key festivals such as the Sango Festival, Oranyan Festival, Isese Day, and the Ogun Festival, contributing greatly to the preservation of Yoruba identity.

“His reign was a time of cultural renaissance, political influence, and socio-economic development—not just for Oyo, but for the entire Yoruba nation,” he noted.

The President concluded by urging the new Alaafin to draw inspiration from his predecessor’s legacy and to continue fostering connections with the Yoruba diaspora, especially in Brazil and Cuba where the culture remains vibrant.