Prince Akeem Owoade, a Nigerian-Canadian entrepreneur and philanthropist, has been announced as the new Alaafin of Oyo, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the town’s royal history. The Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, confirmed the appointment on Friday through the state Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade.
At 49 years old, Prince Owoade’s journey from a royal family in Oyo to a successful career abroad and back to claim the throne is a testament to his versatility and commitment to tradition.
Royal Heritage
Born into the prominent Owoade-Agunloye royal family of Oyo, Prince Owoade is the son of Pa Rasaki Ibiyosi Owoade, a descendant of Aremo Aderounmu Iyanda Owoade of the Agure Compound in Oyo town. His family has a deep connection to the Alaafin dynasty, and he was chosen by the Owoade-Agunloye family as their preferred candidate for the throne.
Academic and Professional Achievements
Prince Owoade’s educational journey began in Oyo, where he completed his secondary education at Baptist High School, Saki, in 1992. His early interest in engineering led him to earn a National Diploma and Higher National Diploma in Mechanical Engineering from The Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro, and The Polytechnic, Ibadan, respectively.
After completing his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program with Nigeria Gas Company in 2002, Owoade worked briefly as a teller at Oceanic Bank International Plc in Warri, Delta State. However, his thirst for knowledge and global exposure drove him to the United Kingdom, where he earned a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Sunderland and Northumbria University.
In 2015, he became a certified Project Management Professional (PMP), showcasing his commitment to professional excellence.
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Thriving Career Abroad
Prince Owoade’s career took him to Canada, where he established himself as a respected entrepreneur and philanthropist. He is the president of 100279 Manitoba Limited, a company specializing in real estate investment and financial services in Manitoba.
He also held a Planning Engineer role at Oil Reach Company in Glasgow, United Kingdom, before joining Manitoba Hydro, one of Canada’s largest electric power and natural gas utility providers, as a Project Coordinator.
A Return to Tradition
Despite his success abroad, Prince Owoade has always remained deeply connected to his roots. His father, Pa Rasaki Ibiyosi Owoade, was dedicated to community development as part of the Oyo North Agricultural Development Programme, helping improve agricultural productivity in Oke-Ogun.
His selection as the new Alaafin signifies not only his family’s confidence but also the community’s trust in his ability to lead and preserve Oyo’s cultural heritage.
Community and Leadership
As he prepares to assume his role as the Alaafin of Oyo, Prince Owoade brings a unique blend of modern expertise and traditional values. His journey from Oyo to Canada and back is a story of resilience, education, and dedication to serving his people.
In the words of the Oyo State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade, “Prince Owoade’s appointment is a reflection of his deep connection to his roots and his capacity to uphold the rich heritage of the Alaafin dynasty.”
With his appointment, Oyo celebrates the return of a son who has walked the world stage but never forgotten his home. Prince Owoade is expected to bring innovation, wisdom, and cultural pride to the ancient throne of Alaafin.