.
Speech by His Imperial Majesty, the Alaafin of Oyo, OBA ABIMBOLA AKEEM OWOADE I During His Visit to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in Abuja
Your Excellency,
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,
Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces,
Federal Republic of Nigeria,
Minister of Information and National Orientation – Alhaji Idris Muhammad
Senior Special Adviser to President on Public Communications and Orientation – Mr. Sunday Dare
Senior Special Adviser on Administration and Operations – Alh. Usman Muhammad
On my entourage are:
1. Ayaba Abiwumi Owoade
2. Oloro of Oro, Oba Joel Olaniyi Olatoye
3. Aseyin of Iseyin, Oba Sefiu Oyebola Adeyemi
4. Okere of Saki, Oba Khalid Olabisi
5. Ona Onibode of Igboho, Oba Abdul Rashid Jayeola
6. Olu Isin of Ijara, Oba Ademola Julius Ajibola
7. Onifiditi of Fiditi, Oba Oyelere Sakiru Oyewole
8. High Chief Asimiyu Atanda – Agbaakin of Oyo
9. High Chief Lamidi Oyewale Fagbemi – Samu of Oyo
10. Osuntola Rotimi
11. Dr. Kunle Ogunmola
12. Engineer Ajibade – Chief of Staff
13. Rev. Dr. Dele Kolade, P.A.
Today, I speak not just as a custodian of culture and tradition, but as a voice for my people, who are deeply honored by the audience you have granted us here in the heart of national leadership—Abuja. Your Excellency, your gracious reception of this visit is more than protocol; it is a mark of your character, your statesmanship, and your enduring regard for the place of traditional institutions in national development.
Your Excellency, the people of Oyo remember your journey. You are a man who rose through the crucible of political struggle with unmatched courage and clarity. You have worn many hats: activist, strategist, bridge-builder, and now, the nation’s foremost leader. Nigeria looks to you not only for leadership but for restoration—for a new vision rooted in justice, equity, and inclusive progress.
It is in that spirit that I come today—not only to pay homage but to seek collaboration. Oyo is ready. The Yoruba nation is ready, and all Nigerians are ready. Our people are resourceful, our youth are eager, our land is rich in culture and potential. We have seen the hand of the Federal Government in unlocking development across key sectors:
* Economic Reform
* Infrastructural Development
* Social Welfare
* Huge Investments in Agriculture
* Youth Empowerment
* Security
* Education
* Cultural Preservation
We understand that national transformation is not built by government alone, nor by tradition in isolation. It is built when ancient wisdom meets modern governance—when institutions, old and new, work hand in hand with one vision: the progress of our people.
Your Excellency, the Alaafin’s Palace, the Oyo Mesi, our chiefs, the Yoruba nation, and indeed, the good people of Oyo stand firmly behind you. We offer not just our support, but our partnership. Let us make the Oyo Empire a model of regional development—one that echoes the greatness of our past and aligns with your vision for a prosperous Nigeria.
May the Almighty continue to strengthen your hands, guide your heart, and grant your administration the wisdom to unify and uplift this beloved nation.
Thank you for receiving us.
Thank you for honoring Oyo and the entire Yoruba nation.
