Alaafin of Oyo celebrates 50th birthday with community projects, sports events

By Adejayan Gbenga –

The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, marked his 50th birthday on July 17, 2025, with a series of developmental initiatives and sporting events aimed at enhancing community welfare and promoting unity across the ancient town.

As part of the week-long celebration, several landmark projects were commissioned to improve infrastructure and living conditions in the area.

Among the key projects was the donation and installation of a 500kVA transformer at Oke Apo by Rt. Hon. Prince Akeem Adeniyi Adeyemi (Skimeh). The transformer, which has already been energized, is expected to improve electricity supply to more than 21 communities in Oyo East Local Government Area.

Seeking to strengthen local security, a newly constructed residential facility for Agro-Rangers personnel was officially inaugurated. The quarters were jointly funded by the four local governments in Oyo in partnership with Sheikh Imam Dahud Igi Ogun, a prominent indigene.

Also commissioned was a solar-powered borehole in the Agure community. Donated by Hon. Rahaman Olorunpoto, a member of the Oyo State House of Assembly, the water project is expected to provide sustainable access to clean water for local residents.

To further engage the youth, the celebrations featured a range of sporting events. Highlights included the finals of a community-wide football tournament co-sponsored by Prince Akeem Adeniyi Adeyemi, table tennis competitions across different age categories supported by Prince Adeniran, Statistician-General of the Federation, and a series of boxing matches that attracted large crowds.

Speaking during the event, Hon. Prince Akeem Adeyemi, who also chairs the House Committee on the South West Development Commission, described the monarch as a symbol of progress and development.

“May Kabiyesi Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I live to celebrate many more years of fulfillment, sound health, and immense prosperity,” he said.