The new Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, has promised to focus on youth empowerment, improve infrastructure, and promote Yoruba culture during his reign.
Oba Owoade officially became the 46th Alaafin on Saturday in Oyo town, following the death of his predecessor, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi. In an interview published by the *Nigerian Tribune*, the new monarch shared his plans for the kingdom.
He said one of his main concerns is the high rate of unemployment among young people.
“Of immediate concern is the need to get our teeming youths gainfully employed and take them off the street. They are our today and our future. They need skills and jobs,” he said.
To solve this, Oba Owoade said he plans to introduce vocational training for young people and the less privileged, especially in digital areas like cybersecurity.
“These people would be trained well and would not need to travel abroad but would be able to work from the corner of their rooms and make a living,” he added.
The Alaafin also promised to work closely with the government to improve roads, schools, and other public facilities in Oyo and nearby areas.
“I will work closely with the government on the need to improve the condition of public facilities, amenities and infrastructure such as roads and schools,” he said.
Oba Owoade, who spent over 20 years in the UK and Canada, also spoke about his goal to unite Yoruba kings and promote their shared culture and traditions.
“I will be strengthening this aspect of our civilisation… and I hope to be taking our culture and tradition to the next level in terms of maintenance and promotion,” he said.
He said the Yoruba language would also be given special attention during his rule.
“As the custodian of Yoruba culture, our language would be one of our major priorities and we will work hard to promote it along with other aspects of our culture and tradition,” the monarch added.
To support the health of his people, Oba Owoade said he has brought in hospital equipment from abroad and will open a community health centre offering free medical care to the poor, especially widows and widowers.
He also revealed plans to modernise the over 200-year-old palace while preserving its traditional design.
“Some new buildings need to be constructed and some need to be renovated… to make it modern while keeping its essential traditional qualities,” he said.
Oba Owoade’s promises have raised hope among residents that his leadership will bring positive change to the historic Oyo Kingdom.
