The Towulade of Owu-Akinale, His Royal Majesty Oba Oluseyi Adediran, Otileta I, has announced a week-long series of events to mark his first year on the throne, framing the milestone as a celebration of peace, unity, and community transformation.
Speaking ahead of the anniversary, the monarch expressed gratitude to God, the Ogun State Government, and prominent traditional rulers for their support over the past year. He specifically acknowledged Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, and the Ewekoro Local Government administration for fostering stability and progress in the kingdom.
Oba Adediran also paid tribute to key royal fathers, including the Paramount Ruler of Yewaland and Chairman of the Ogun State Council of Obas, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle; the Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo; and the Olowu of Owu Kingdom, Oba Prof. Saka Adelola Matemilola. He further extended appreciation to former President Chief Olusegun Obasanjo and former Ogun State Governor Senator Ibikunle Amosun for their guidance.
Honouring a Three-Decade Mentorship
A central highlight of the anniversary is the special recognition of the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd).
Describing Marwa as a mentor, benefactor, and inspiration for nearly 30 years, Oba Adediran credited the NDLEA chief’s early belief in his potential as instrumental to his personal and leadership journey.
“General Marwa’s exemplary public service, patriotism, discipline, and commitment to nation-building continue to inspire generations of Nigerians,” the monarch stated, noting that Marwa’s relentless fight against illicit drugs has safeguarded families and strengthened national security.
Oba Adediran urged Nigerians to support the NDLEA and the Federal Government’s anti-drug initiatives, warning that substance abuse poses a grave threat to national development and youth potential.
Infrastructure and Community Progress
To mark the anniversary, the monarch will commission and inspect several infrastructure projects executed in partnership with community leaders and corporate partners. Key developments include:
• Palace Renovation: The transformation of the ancient Town Hall into a modern palace structure.
• Healthcare & Worship: The ongoing construction of the Aduni Olufunmilayo Makinde Clinic, alongside the rebuilding of the Baptist Church and Pastorium.
• Security: The construction of a new Police Station, currently being undertaken by Stellar Steel Company.
Reaffirming his commitment to the kingdom’s future, Oba Adediran stated that his reign would continue to focus on converting Owu-Akinale into an industrially viable, secure, and prosperous town with improved access to healthcare and education.
Schedule of Events
The first coronation anniversary celebrations are scheduled to run from Wednesday, July 22, to Saturday, July 25, 2026.
The line-up of activities includes a press conference, inter-religious prayer services, women-focused initiatives, a local football tournament, a free medical outreach, chieftaincy title installations, project commissioning, and traditional cultural displays, culminating in a grand finale on Saturday.
The monarch invited all sons, daughters, and friends of Owu-Akinale to join the celebrations and reaffirm their commitment to the continued growth of the kingdom.