Oyo Empire Celebration : ALAAFIN charges stakeholders to serve as a rallying point for strengthening cultural consciousness, foster collaboration among people of Oyo ancestry

                                 PRESS RELEASE 

Oyo Empire Celebration : ALAAFIN charges stakeholders to serve as a rallying point for strengthening cultural consciousness, foster collaboration among people of Oyo ancestry. 

..Nominates broad-based planning committee

The Alaafin of Oyo and the Titan of Yorubaland , His Imperial Majesty, Oba Engineer Abimbola Akeem Owoade 1, has advised all stakeholders for the forthcoming Oyo Empire Day  to transcend sectional interests and work collectively to ensure that every descendant of Oyo, irrespective of place of residence, occupation, or professional background, finds a place in this unique celebration.

The Maiden Annual Oyo Empire Day Celebration is scheduled to hold from Thursday, 17th December to Saturday, 19th December 2026.

A release by his Director of Media and Publicity , Bode Durojaiye, said Alaafin gave the admonition in a message to the nominees and stakeholders for the celebration.

According to Oba Owoade , " the annual celebration should serve as a rallying point for all people of Oyo ancestry, strengthen cultural consciousness, foster collaboration among Oyo communities, encourage historical research and documentation, stimulate tourism and economic partnerships, inspire younger generations to appreciate and preserve the enduring legacy of the Oyo Empire, and further project the cultural excellence of the Oyo people to the world".

 "" Oyo Empire Day is not a celebration of Oyo Atiba alone. Rather, it is a celebration of the common ancestry, history, civilization, institutions, values, and cultural heritage of the entire Oyo-speaking people wherever they reside. It is intended to provide a unifying platform for all Oyo descendants to reconnect with their shared identity while promoting unity, historical scholarship, tourism, investment, youth development, cultural renaissance, and sustainable socio-economic collaboration"".

The breadth of participation already secured, the Paramount Ruler noted, underscores the inclusive vision of the Alaafin that every town and community with historical roots in Oyo should see itself as an integral part of this historic celebration. 

He expressed confidence in the caliber, experience, and patriotism of the Planning Committee, the Royal Fathers, and the numerous stakeholders who have embraced this vision, and is optimistic that, working together will lay a solid foundation for what is envisioned to become an enduring annual cultural and historical event of international significance.

He also expressed appreciation for the cooperation and active participation of all stakeholders in making the maiden edition a landmark event.

In further demonstration of the broad acceptance and pan-Oyo character of the initiative, Alaafin has therefore nominated eminent sons and daughters of Oyo ancestry to serve on the Planning Committee for the Celebration.

Oba Owoade is equally delighted to announce that eminent traditional rulers and other distinguished personalities from across the historic Oyo Empire have identified with the celebration and will participate as critical stakeholders in its planning and successful execution.

The Planning Committee comprises accomplished Academics, Professionals, Business leaders, Industrialists, Politicians, Technocrats, Media Practitioners, Cultural Ambassadors, Youth, Women leaders, Diaspora representatives, and accomplished sons and daughters of Oyo ancestry drawn from communities across Oyo, Ogun, Osun, Ekiti, Ondo, Kwara, Kogi, Lagos States, as well as the Republic of Benin. 

Among the eminent royal fathers and stakeholders who made the list include the Olu of Ilaro, the Onimasai of Imasayi, the Olu of Owode Yewa, and the Aboro of Ibese from Yewaland ; the Olooro of Oro, the Oba of Sao, the Oranmiyan of Oko, the Ogunsua of Modakeke, the Ona Onibode of Igboho, Ajori Iwin of Irawo, Alagere of Ago Are, Alado of Awaye and many other traditional rulers in Yorubaland and Republic of Benin.

Other eminent personalities, include Professor Adejumo, Dr. Kunle Ogunmola, Dr. Wole Akanni Duro-Ladipo, Bishop Ayo Lawrence Ladigbolu, Baba Bamiji Ojo, Pa Tunde Kelani, and many other distinguished Academics, Professionals,

Entrepreneurs, Cultural Advocates, and Community leaders whose commitment reflects the collective resolve to preserve and promote the enduring legacy of the historic Oyo Empire.

The full membership of the Committee will be formally unveiled during its inauguration.

OLOYE ADESOLA ADEDUNTAN SET TO BECOME THE NEXT BALOGUN OF OYO.

OLOYE ADESOLA ADEDUNTAN, PRO CHANCELLOR ABIOLA AJIMOBI TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY SET TO BECOME THE NEXT BALOGUN OF OYO.

The ancient city of Oyo will, on Saturday, September 5, 2026, host the installation of corporate leader and philanthropist Oloye (Dr) Adesola Kazeem Adeduntan as the new Balogun of Oyo by the Alaafin Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I.  

The ceremony, earlier slated for July, was postponed following the abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area. The victims have since been reunited with their families, though two lives were lost.

Adeduntan will succeed the late Dr Victor Omololu Olunloyo, former Governor of the old Oyo State and renowned statesman, who held the title with distinction. The Balogun is one of the most senior offices in the Oyo Empire, traditionally linked to leadership, courage, and public service.  

At AFC, he served as a pioneer Director and CFO and led the strategy that secured Moody’s A3 investment-grade rating in 2014. At FirstBank, where he was GMD/CEO from January 2016 to April 2024, he drove digital transformation, stronger governance and expansion across Africa and the UK.  

Following his retirement in April 2024, Dr. Adeduntan embarked on a new chapter focused on building enduring institutions for Nigeria’s long-term development. He is the Founder and Chairman of Sequoia Holdings Limited, a group with interests in financial services, strategic minerals, professional services, energy and long-term investment platforms.  

Sequoia Financial Services Limited, launched in early 2025, provides advisory and investment services to corporate, institutional and private clients. Its sister company, Sequoia Minerals & Metals Limited, is pursuing a district-scale exploration portfolio across multiple states, with a focus on critical minerals required for the global energy transition.  

Through Sequoia Professional Services Limited, he advises boards, governments and investors on governance, strategy and institutional transformation.

In 2025, Governor Seyi Makinde appointed him Pro-Chancellor of Abiola Ajimobi Technical University, Ibadan.  

A Fellow of ICAN and CIBN, Dr Adeduntan holds honorary DSc degrees from Cranfield and UI. The Balogun title will complement his existing title of Apesinola of Ibadanland, strengthening his ties to both historic cities.

Re: ALAAFIN NOT ARROGANT, BUT CONSIDERATE, VISIONARY - A Response to the Reckless Accusation and Unbecoming Remarks by Prof. Ademola Omobewaji Dasylva

               PRESS RELEASE

Re: ALAAFIN NOT ARROGANT, BUT CONSIDERATE, VISIONARY 

A Response to the Reckless Accusation and Unbecoming Remarks by Prof. Ademola Omobewaji Dasylva

It is with a deep sense of duty to truth, culture, and decorum that this response is offered regarding the unfortunate and reckless remarks credited to Prof. Ademola Omobewaji Dasylva concerning the purported late arrival of the Alaafin of Oyo, and the Titan of Yorubaland, His Imperial Majesty,  Oba Engineer Abimbola Akeem Owoade 1, to the inauguration of the Alaafin’s Institute of Yoruba Studies at Emmanuel Alayande University of Education, Oyo.

To reduce a sacred institution, a custodian of Yoruba civilization, and a monarch of global reverence to the object of public ridicule over time is not only intellectually lazy, it is culturally injurious.

The accusation that “Alaafin came  three hours late” betrays a fundamental ignorance of royal protocol and institutional coordination.

For the records, the original schedule proposed by the University indicated 11:00am as the time for His Imperial Majesty’s arrival. However, prior to the commencement of the event, the Director of Administration of the Alaafin’s Palace, who was the official interface between the Palace and the University, formally communicated that the Alaafin would be arriving with other Paramount Obas who were traveling from outside Oyo State. Consequently, it was made unequivocally clear that His Imperial Majesty’s entourage could not arrive earlier than 12:00noon or 1pm.

This communication was not an afterthought. It was made deliberately and in good faith to enable proper planning. To therefore feign surprise and launch into public castigation is either a willful disregard of facts or a deliberate act of provocation.

The Palace does not move in isolation. When the Alaafin moves, he moves with the dignity of Oyo, with the council, and often, in concert with other crowns. To expect an Imperial procession to conform to a timetable designed without full consultation is to misunderstand both monarchy and courtesy.

Prof. Dasylva is not the convener of the event. He was not part of the protocol team. He was not privy to the correspondence between the Palace and the University.  

The honorable and scholarly path, therefore, would have been to inquire from the organizers before rushing to the marketplace of public opinion with insults. 

A Professor of repute is expected to embody circumspection, research, and restraint. To substitute these virtues with uncouth outbursts is to erode the very intellectual authority one claims to wield. 

Accusation without verification is slander. Criticism without context is recklessness. And when such is directed at the throne of Oduduwa, it ceases to be commentary and becomes desecration.

The Alaafin is not a ceremonial Guest. He is the Iku Baba Yeye, the symbolic and spiritual Head of the Yoruba nation. His presence at the inauguration of the Alaafin’s Institute of Yoruba Studies was itself the highest endorsement the Institute could receive. 

To be present at all, despite a demanding Imperial calendar and the logistics of moving with other royal fathers, is a statement of commitment to Yoruba education, culture, and scholarship.

Must we now demand that the Custodian of our heritage abandon royal procedure to satisfy individual impatience? Must we trade 700 years of institutional dignity for a wristwatch?

We acknowledge Prof. Dasylva’s contributions to Yoruba scholarship. But scholarship without humility becomes arrogance. Criticism without facts becomes calumny.

We therefore demand retraction and apology for remarks made without due consultation and in disregard of prior communication from the Palace.

In future,  public commentators must seek clarification from organizers before making pronouncements on matters involving the Crown. Scholars and subjects alike,  owe it a duty to protect the dignity of Yoruba institutions from needless assault.

The Alaafin did not come “late.” He came according to schedule, as duly communicated. To say otherwise is to bear false witness.

Let it be known: The throne is not late. The throne arrives when it arrives, and history adjusts its clock to meet it.

                                                                Signed

                     Bode Durojaiye , Director of Media and Publicity to the Alaafin, Paramount Ruler of Oyo Kingdom, and the Superior Head of Yorubaland.

                    .....

Canada: Alaafin Seeks Establishment Of Hydro Power Firm To Boost Oyo Electricity

By Remi Adedayo

The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, on Tuesday, paid a royal visit to his former work place, Manitoba Hydro, an electricity generating company in Manitoba, Canada.

Oba Owoade is visiting Canada alongside his queen, Ayaba Abiwumi Owoade and some notable traditional rulers and Oyo chiefs.

Prior to his ascension to the throne as the Alaafin, then Prince Owoade worked at Manitoba Hydro as the Project Management Professional (Project Manager) of the power engineering firm.

PhotoSpeak:

On the entourage are Olora of Oraland - HRM Oba Rilwan Olawale Aremu Cooler, Ona Onibode of Igboholand - HRM Oba Abdurasheed Adetoyese Jayeola III and Oloro of Oro Kingdom - HRM Oba Joel Olaniyi Oyatoye Titiloye Olufayo II, who accompanied the Alaafin of Oyo, His Imperial Majesty Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade I along with other members of the royal entourage to Manitoba Hydro, a power-generating company.

The visit provided an opportunity to discuss partnerships and strategies aimed at easing the strain caused by the erratic nature of electricity supply back home in Nigeria.

The Alaafin and his entourage was received on Tuesday by the President and Chief Executive Officer of the organisation, Allan Danroth, alongside the management of the Manitoba Hydro.

Following the royal courtesies and reunion that highlighted the visit, the foremost traditional ruler discussed the possibility of establishing a hydro power generation station in Ikere Afonja-Oyo in Oyo State with his former employers.

The initiative by Oba Owoade, himself a power engineer, was targeted at easing the challenges of epileptic electricity supply in Oyo metropolis and Oyo State in general.

Earlier, Oba Owoade's delegation was welcomed into the North American country amid celebrations as his entourage was accorded royal welcome in Winnipeg.

Nigerians of Yoruba extractions in their numbers took turns to welcome the paramount ruler back to his former base and to pay him homage as the new Alaafin.

Oyo Govt Finally Receives N7.7bn Surveillance Aircraft To Boost Security After Backlash

The Oyo state government says it has taken delivery of the two long-awaited security surveillance aircraft, more than a year after purchasing them.

On July 9, 2025, the Oyo state government announced the procurement of the aircraft, saying the acquisition cost N7.76 billion.

Dotun Oyelade, the commissioner for information, said the military assets would bolster security across the state.

“The two aircraft already procured cost N7,763,360,000 and will effectively back up Amotekun and other security forces in the state to prevent and destroy bandits in their hideouts,” Oyelade said at the time.

“The two DA 42 MNG model aircraft are for Intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) operations and are equipped with sophisticated surveillance gadgets capable of identifying targets from both high and low altitudes.”

In a statement issued on Tuesday, Oyelade announced the arrival of the aircraft at Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport in Ibadan, the state capital, saying they would strengthen aerial surveillance, intelligence-gathering and rapid security response across Oyo and neighbouring states.

“The arrival of the aircraft marks another step in the state’s efforts to strengthen security operations through improved intelligence gathering and aerial surveillance,” the statement reads.

“The aircraft are expected to support security agencies, including the Amotekun Corps and other relevant formations, in monitoring criminal activities and improving response efforts across the state,” he said.

FIFA Demands Structural Stability For Nigeria To Qualify For 2030

FIFA has outlined structural stability rather than raw talent as the foundational requirement for Nigeria to successfully qualify for the 2030 World Cup.

This follows the Super Eagles' painful failure to secure qualification for consecutive tournaments, including the 2026 edition, prompting a major rebuild of the nation's footballing blueprint. 

Core Demands for Nigeria's 2030 Qualification

According to structural evaluation blueprints shared by sports analysts and The Punch Newspaper, Nigeria must enforce distinct administrative upgrades to progress: 

• Administrative Integrity: Eradicating internal issues like players boycotting training sessions due to unpaid allowances just before crucial playoff matches. 
• Contractual Guarantees: Honouring contracts by paying national team coaches on time to allow focus without distractions. 
• Long-Term Squad Overhaul: Managing a strict age-transition plan to replace older veterans with younger talent before physical decline hits by 2030. 
• Grassroots Infrastructure: Restructuring the grassroots pipeline rather than heavily relying on overseas-born players or the NPFL alone. 

The Rebuild Underway

• Coaching Trust: The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has backed head coach Eric Chelle, whose strategies are aimed at restoring confidence and engineering a youthful squad rebuild. 
• Integrated Development: Plans require aligning under-23 developmental squads closely with the senior Super Eagles squad to streamline progress over the next four years. 

FIFA REMOVES ARGENTINA AS SPAIN GIVES SUSPENSION STATEMENT

FIFA have announced Argentina have officially been removed from the top of the world rankings following the World Cup final defeat to Spain.

Lionel Scaloni's side saw their hopes of retaining the World Cup ended by a 1-0 extra-time defeat in New Jersey on Sunday, with Lionel Messi and his team-mates producing a subdued display before ugly scenes marred the aftermath. Now the reigning world champions have also surrendered their place as the world's highest-ranked team, while Lionel Messi chose not to fly home with the rest of the squad as thousands of supporters lined the streets of Buenos Aires to welcome them back.

FIFA announce Argentina's removal and Spain player gives suspension statement

Watch on YouTube: The FIFA Investigation Panel 

Argentina are under investigation for the World Cup final violence after the final whistle, and now one of the Spanish victims, Gavi, has spoken out

 

Spain's victory has propelled Luis de la Fuente's side to the summit of the latest FIFA rankings on 1,995.88 points after earning 30.27 ranking points for their World Cup final triumph. Argentina have slipped into second on 1,970.37, with France, England and Brazil completing the top five. Morocco, Portugal, Belgium, the Netherlands and Mexico round out the top 10.

The rankings are the latest setback for Argentina following a turbulent conclusion to their World Cup campaign.

OYO ALAAFIN IN DIASPORA MOURNS THE PASSING OF PRINCE ADETUNJI OGUNWUSI, CELEBRATES A LIFE OF EXCELLENCE AND SERVICE

PRESS RELEASE: For Immediate Release 

ALAAFIN COMMISERATES WITH OONIRISA OJAJA II ON THE DEMISE OF HIS SENIOR BROTHER PRINCE ADETUNJI OGUNWUSI.

..PUTS A PHONE CALL THROUGH TO OONI.

 OYO ALAAFIN IN DIASPORA MOURNS THE PASSING OF PRINCE ADETUNJI OGUNWUSI, CELEBRATES A LIFE OF EXCELLENCE AND SERVICE

It is with profound sadness and a deep sense of loss that the Oyo Alaafin In Diaspora received the news of the passing of Prince Adetunji Ogunwusi, the immediate elder brother of His Imperial Majesty, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, the Ooni of Ife. At this moment of grief, we extend our heartfelt condolences to the Ooni of Ife, the entire Ogunwusi family, the illustrious Giesi Ruling House of Ile-Ife, friends, associates, colleagues, and all those whose lives were touched by the remarkable journey of Prince Adetunji Ogunwusi.

Prince Adetunji Ogunwusi lived a life defined by purpose, distinction, and service. As a respected businessman, entrepreneur, and community leader, he made significant contributions to Nigeria’s corporate landscape through his visionary leadership

and dedication to excellence. His distinguished role as Group Chairman of Prime waterview Holdings and Chairman of Prime waterview Limited reflected his exceptional capacity for innovation, strategic thinking, and institution-building. 

Throughout his lifetime, Prince Adetunji was widely admired for his integrity, humility, resilience, and commitment to uplifting others. His leadership style was anchored on discipline, professionalism, and a genuine desire to create opportunities for growth and

development. He earned the respect of business partners, colleagues, entrepreneurs, and countless individuals who

encountered his wisdom, generosity, and compassionate spirit.

Beyond his achievements in the business world, Prince Adetunji Ogunwusi represented the values of dignity, honour, and

responsibility that define the rich heritage of the Yoruba people. He carried the pride of the Ojaja lineage with grace and contributed meaningfully to society through his commitment to progress, community development, and service to humanity.

His passing is not only a profound loss to the Ogunwusi family but also a great loss to Nigeria’s business community, traditional institutions, and all who believe in purposeful leadership. His remarkable legacy of excellence, wisdom, and service will continue to inspire future generations and remain a testament to the impact of a life dedicated to positive change.

The Oyo Alaafin in Diaspora stands in solidarity with the Ooni of Ife, the Ogunwusi family, and the people of Ile-Ife during this period of mourning. We pray that Almighty God grants His Imperial Majesty and the entire family the strength, comfort, and fortitude to bear this irreplaceable loss.

May the memories of Prince Adetunji Ogunwusi’s kindness, accomplishments, and contributions continue to bring comfort to all who mourn him. May his life of honour, compassion, leadership, and excellence remain a source of inspiration for generations yet unborn. We pray that the Almighty grants him eternal rest. Your legacy of dignity, wisdom, service, and excellence shall continue to shine.

Yours faithfully 

Signed:

Magistrate Princess Bilikisu Savage  (Chairperson, Oyo Alaafin in Diaspora)

Prince Afolabi Aderemi Paul

(Secretary, Oyo Alaafin in Diaspora)

Prince Lashley Oladigbolu 

(Media Publicity, Oyo Alaafin in Diaspora)

Cc: His Imperial Majesty Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I

Ibadan Think Tank Group-UK honours Mogaji Wole Arisekola as Most Distinguished Ibadan Indigene.

In a remarkable and profound show of appreciation for philanthropic contributions towards Ibadan city an accolades of tribute has been given to an exceptional son of Ibadanland – Mogaji Bowale Oluwole Arisekola in London.

The Grand Ambassador of Ibadan Culture, Balogun Gaphar Babatunde Ojetola has on the occasion of the successful hosting in London, of the 5th Ibadan Cultural Festival UK by the Ibadan Think Tank Group-UK, considered it a great honour to pay tribute to an extraordinary son of Ibadanland, Mogaji Bowale Oluwole Arisekola, who was deservedly honoured as the Most Distinguished Ibadan Indigene and who was also the Special Guest of Honour at the occasion.

The Ibadan Think Tank Group-UK, an affiliate of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes CCII was established by the three existing Ibadan indigenous associations in London namely, the Oluyole Diamond Sisters Club UK, Oluyole Progressive Union UK and Ibadanland Development Association UK.

The establishment of the association was one of Gaphar Ojetola's major achievements as the Chairman, Ibadan Cultutal Festival in 2022 which remains an achievement which he is  personally proud of.

According to a statement made by Ambassador Ojetola, "Beyond receiving these prestigious honours, Mogaji Wole Arisekola once again demonstrated the qualities that have endeared him to countless people across Ibadanland and beyond. In a spontaneous and inspiring gesture, he took it upon himself to lead the fundraising effort during the event". 

Mogaji Wolle Arisekola is honoured for making a remarkable personal donation and encouraging other dignitaries on the high table to give generously. "He ignited a spirit of giving that resulted in the highest amount of donations ever recorded in the five-year history of the Ibadan Cultural Festival UK.", Ojetola emphasised.

Other big donors at the event were:

Hon. Dr. Saheed Mosadoluwa a.k.a Ibile.

Princess Loveth Oluwatoosin Emmanuel nee Olakulehin (who flew in from the US. ) she is also the Mother of the Day

Sen. Kola Balogun.

Mr Olatunbosun Tubi who represented the Royal Father of the Day, Oba Kola Daisi

Olori Laide Ajibola- Aare Onibon Iyalode.

Alhaji Sulaiman Ajayi. Chairman of the occasion 

Alhaja Tawa Alli 

Chief Mrs Bolupe Aramide, Aare Ago Iyalode

Mogaji Yusuf Adeleke

Dr. Akinosun

Mogaji Alli-Iwo and so many others numerous to mention.

Mogaji Wole Arisekola’s singular act reflected not only his generosity but also his unwavering commitment to the growth, unity and development of Ibadanland.

"Mogaji Wole Arisekola has consistently remained a beacon of hope and an enduring source of inspiration. Whether through human capital development, educational support, economic empowerment or philanthropy, he has touched innumerable lives. He has financed the education of many who otherwise would have been denied the opportunity to fulfil their dreams. He has facilitated employment, created opportunities and extended helping hands to countless individuals without seeking recognition or applause."

"His life exemplifies selfless service, compassion, humility and an uncommon passion for the progress of Ibadanland. It is therefore no surprise that he is deeply loved, highly respected and immensely appreciated by people from all walks of life"

Indeed, Ibadanland is richly blessed to have a patriot of his calibre—a man whose generosity speaks louder than words and whose legacy continues to inspire present and future generations.

As we celebrate his outstanding contributions, I pray that God, Almighty Allah (SWT) will continue to preserve and protect him from every evil, seen and unseen. May He surround him with divine mercy, perfect health, enduring peace and abundant happiness. May Allah grant him healthy longevity, increase him in honour, wisdom, wealth and influence, and continue to make him an instrument of blessings to humanity.

May his household continue to flourish, and may his noble contributions to Ibadanland and mankind be rewarded abundantly in this life and in the Hereafter. Ameen

Congratulations to the Chairman, ITTG-UK, Mogaji Gafar Gbadamosi and his team for this laudable achievement. We shall celebrate many more by God’s grace.

E ba n gb’omo oke….Lanti Lanti.

By Balogun Gaphar Babatunde Ojetola

Grand Ambassador of Ibadan Culture (GAIC)

NBTI wins 2026 LSGEL Entrepreneur's Innovation Award as DG/CEO Dr. K K Raji honoured with 2026 LSGEL Entrepreneur’s Legacy Award in London

*DOUBLE AWARDS*

London, United Kingdom — 18th July, 2026

The National Board for Technology Incubation (NBTI) has been honoured with the *2026 LSGEL Entrepreneur's Innovation Award*, presented by the London School of Global Entrepreneurship and Leadership (LSGEL) at the LSGEL EntrepTech 2026 Conference & Awards Ceremony held in London, United Kingdom.

In a further mark of distinction for the Agency, the Director-General/Chief Executive Officer, Dr Kazeem Kolawole Raji FCIPM (UK), FPMA (UK), was separately conferred with the *2026 LSGEL Entrepreneur's Legacy Award*, in recognition of his personal leadership and contributions to technology innovation and national development.

The Innovation Award presented to NBTI recognises the Agency's outstanding leadership and commitment to advancing innovation, entrepreneurship and technology-driven solutions through impactful programmes such as the *NextGen Innovation Challenge*. LSGEL cited NBTI's dedication to nurturing the next generation of innovators, building an ecosystem of creativity and excellence, and driving sustainable socio-economic transformation across communities.

The Legacy Award presented to Dr. Raji recognises his exceptional leadership, visionary innovation and outstanding contributions to technology innovation, entrepreneurship development and the national innovation ecosystem. LSGEL noted his continued commitment to advancing technology-driven enterprises and empowering innovators in ways that drive sustainable economic growth and national development.

Both awards were assessed across key pillars including innovation, empowerment, entrepreneurship, leadership, technology incubation and commercialisation, and impact on nation-building.

This double recognition on an international stage underscores NBTI's growing reputation as a driving force behind Nigeria's technology innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem. It also reflects the impact of the Agency's flagship programmes in empowering innovators and building sustainable, technology-driven enterprises nationwide.

Ibrahim Agboola

Information and Public Relations Officer

NBTI, Abuja.

ALAAFIN makes case for Yoruba indigenous knowledge as basis of development

By Bode Durojaiye, Director of Media and Publicity to the Alaafin, Paramount Ruler of Oyo Kingdom, and the Superior Head of Yorubaland

The Alaafin of Oyo and the Titan of Yorubaland, Oba Engineer Abimbola Akeem Owoade 1, has  called for  a thorough study of the Yoruba knowledge system and society that produced the archetypal African system in Oyo, in order to provide that direction the country missed in the past.

He said the country  is at a momentous and critical stage in the.historical development of her nationhood when she is looking back, trying to re-define the system of government in order to establish a responsible and responsive government. 

In a release by his Director of Media and Publicity, Bode Durojaiye, Alaafin stated this on  Tuesday at the inauguration of the Alaafin Insights of Yoruba Studies at the Emmanuel Alayande University of Education, Oyo.

Oba Owoade stated that  incontrovertibly, Yoruba are a major tribal group in Nigeria, as they are found in large concentration along the West African coast as well

as other major cities of the world, adding that perhaps what stands out the Yoruba

everywhere they are found is their strong attachment to their culture, religion and traditions. 

According to him, "":even with civilization, the light of culture has remained effervescent among the people.  Though modernisation has bombarded our

tradition, but like an ancient fortress built to withstand fierce military onslaughts, our living traditions and customs have remained pivot on which rests the dignity of the black man.

"" There is urgent need for the present generation not to lose grip with the link that ties them firmly with their traditions and customs.

"" The ancient city of Oyo remains the home of tradition and precisely at the spot in which the most celebrated African political system was designed, implemented and perfected to excellence. A  nation or tribe without customs is as good as a horde of gorillas ravaging the deep forests"".

He noted that the indigenous resources of Yoruba epistemology are

crafted in such a way as to shape the thoughts and worldview and also

guide daily conducts of the Yoruba people.

"" The Yoruba recognizes the need to have a society where law and order

will prevail. Quite unlike what obtains in contemporary times, Yoruba

enshrine the values and ethos of sanity in the child. As a people without physical written paraphernalia, the Yoruba starts to nurture their minds early. The implication is that as a child grows he or she learns etiquette and moral ethos, along the way’’.

Alaafin noted that pre-colonial system of government in Oyo was

constructed on an elaborate system of checks and balances which made

adequate provisions for and accommodated the culture and sensibilities

of the people that produced it.

In essence, he pointed out that it was a people’s original design to meet the wishes and aspirations of the people and their definition of development.

The Paramount Ruler pointed out that  Sango provides everyone with a rare opportunity to define his or her attitude to culture by identifying with its virtues and

in so doing  equip ourselves with an understanding of these virtues that transformed Sango from being just the fourth ruler of the kingdom of Oyo to global brand  that he has become today. 

"" In this era of African cultural re-awakening, the life, leadership, administration and government under Sango as Alaafin here in Oyo should be explored in the strictest academic tradition and the ennobling values intellectualized. The life of  Alaafin Sango would definitely be an excellent example in leadership, considering the fact that his rule of Oyo was for less than a decade"".

Alaafin went further,  "" I am disturbed at the gradual extinction of

Yoruba Customs and traditions, and how modernisation has been allowed

to bombard Yoruba traditions. As things move at the present time, it

will be disastrous if we fold our arms allowing our traditions to dwindle into oblivion in the face of permissiveness. How many Yorubabbsons and daughters can brilliantly articulate their local language?

"" It is frightening that our own language is dangling on the pit of extinction while preference is accorded foreign language, which is English. Languages often hold the only record of a people’s history, including their songs, stories, praise poetry and ancient traditions. In particular, many indigenous cultures contain a wealth o information about the local environment and its flora"".

"" The survival of threatened languages, and the indigenous knowledge

contained within, is an important aspect of maintaining biological

diversity. Languages are now becoming extinct faster than birds,

mammals, fish or plants"".

Alaafin explained that the inauguration of the Institute is more than the establishment of another academic institution, adding that ""it is a declaration of purpose , a commitment to memory, a pledge that the the language, history,  philosophy, values, and cultural treasures of the Yoruba people shall not be forgotten , neglected and diminished"".

To Oba Owoade, "" the location of this institute in Oyo is both fitting and deeply symbolic. Oyo occupies a unique  place of Yoruba history . It was from this ancient Kingdom that one of Africa's greatest Empires emerged. The Old Oyo Empire stood as a  beacon of political organisation, military strength, economic prosperity , diplomacy and cultural influence"".

The Royal Father concluded by saying  that "" Oyo is not only a Centre of political history , also a centre of learning , stressing that for generations, the City has nurtured minds and produced  leaders,  hence its it is therefore entirely appropriate that an  Institute devoted to Yoruba Studies  should find its home here"".

The colour event was attended by the academia, traditional rulers, religious and community leaders .

Highlights of the occasion was the commissioning of the Institute building by the Titan of Yorubaland, and presentation of Awards of Honour on some notable  recipients . 

Among them was the Chairman , Oyo Metropolitan Development Association, and renowned  Clergy, Arch- Bishop Prince Lawrence Ayoade Ladigbolu .