For Oba Akeem Owoade, the new Alaafin of Oyo, ascending to the throne of his ancestors was no easy feat.
His journey was shaped by a combination of innate qualities, a strong work ethic, and determination, which ultimately paved the way for his rise to the throne.
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A versatile professional with a background in engineering and banking, Oba Owoade’s career expanded into real estate, oil and gas, and hydroelectric power.
His diverse expertise led to his unanimous selection by the Owoade-Agunloye family as their chosen candidate to contend for the position of Alaafin.
Here’s what you need to know about the new Alaafin:
Background
Oba Akeem Owoade is a Nigerian-Canadian entrepreneur, philanthropist, and president of 100279 Manitoba Limited, a real estate investment and financial services firm in Manitoba, Canada. Born 49 years ago into the esteemed Owoade-Agunloye family in Oyo town, he is the son of Pa Rasaki Ibiyosi Owoade, a descendant of Aremo Aderounmu Iyanda Owoade from the Agure Compound in Oyo.
Education
Prince Akeem Owoade completed his secondary education at Baptist High School in Saki, Oyo State, Nigeria, in 1992. His father worked with the Oyo North Agricultural Development Programme (ONADEP), contributing to agricultural development in the Oke-Ogun region.
With a keen interest in engineering, he pursued a National Diploma and Higher National Diploma in Mechanical Engineering from The Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro, Ogun State (1994-1997) and The Polytechnic, Ibadan, Oyo State (1999-2001). He completed his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in 2002, working as a Mechanical Intern/Planner at the Nigeria Gas Company.
After his NYSC, Oba Owoade worked as a teller at Oceanic Bank International Plc. in Warri from 2003 to 2004 before deciding to further his education in the United Kingdom. He attended the University of Sunderland (2008) and Northumbria University (2012), where he earned a Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering. He also became a certified Project Management Professional (PMP) in 2015.
Philanthropy and Leadership
Described as practical, steadfast, loyal, and reliable, Oba Akeem Owoade is known for his strong commitment to helping others. He has consistently supported family, friends, and the community, both locally and internationally. This generosity and dedication to service were pivotal in his family’s decision to select him as the candidate for the Alaafin position.
Before relocating to Canada, Oba Owoade worked as a Planning Engineer at Oil Reach Company in Glasgow, UK, and later served as the Project Coordinator at Manitoba Hydro, one of Canada’s largest electric power and natural gas utility providers.
His leadership qualities, extensive global experience, educational background, and conflict resolution skills are expected to bring great benefit to Oyo town and the Yoruba race at large. Additionally, his charisma, humility, and religious tolerance are qualities that will serve him well in his reign.
Despite his extensive travels, Oba Akeem Owoade has remained a proud advocate of his cultural heritage, being an active member of “Egbe Omo Yoruba” wherever he goes. His guiding slogan, “If we are to preserve culture, we must continue to create it,” reflects his commitment to nurturing Yoruba culture and traditions.
With his wealth of experience, Oba Owoade is poised to lead Oyo to greater heights while preserving its rich heritage for generations to come.