Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade, the newly installed 46th Alaafin of Oyo, has outlined a comprehensive agenda aimed at tackling youth unemployment and promoting Yoruba culture. This vision marks a significant shift in focus for the ancient Oyo Kingdom, emphasizing the welfare of its people, particularly the youth.
Key Priorities:
- Youth Empowerment: The Alaafin has prioritized addressing the alarming rate of youth unemployment by providing vocational training and skills development. This includes training in digital skills like cybersecurity, enabling young people to work remotely and earn a living without needing to travel abroad13.
- Infrastructure Development: Oba Owoade plans to collaborate with the government to improve public facilities, such as roads and schools, in Oyo and its environs. This partnership aims to enhance the overall quality of life for residents.
- Cultural Promotion: Building on the legacy of his predecessor, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, the new Alaafin intends to continue promoting Yoruba culture and traditions. This includes reviving and enhancing festivals like the Sango and Oranmiyan festivals.
- Healthcare and Community Development: The Alaafin has also emphasized the need for improved healthcare facilities, announcing plans to establish a community health center that will offer free medical services, especially for the less privileged. Additionally, he aims to empower widows and widowers to improve their socio-economic status.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has welcomed the Alaafin’s vision, urging him to use his position to foster peace, promote cultural identity, and support governance. Tinubu noted that traditional institutions like the Alaafin’s stool are crucial in navigating Nigeria’s complex challenges.
As Oba Owoade begins his reign, he faces the task of living up to the legacy of his predecessor while introducing new initiatives to address contemporary challenges. His focus on youth empowerment and cultural preservation is seen as a promising start for a new era in Oyo.