Alaafin of Oyo Oba Abimbola Owoade has marked his 50th birthday in grand style, celebrating five decades of life steeped in royalty, culture and spiritual purpose.
The monarch took to his Instagram on Thursday to reflect on his journey, writing, “Today, I turn 50. Five decades of divine purpose. A journey of crown, culture and calling. I give glory to God and honor to my ancestors. May the next chapters be blessed with wisdom and peace.”
As part of the birthday celebrations, Oba Owoade on Wednesday held a sacred traditional service at Ijo Ifa Adimula in Bara, Oyo State, reaffirming his connection to the spiritual and cultural roots of the ancient Oyo kingdom.
The 50th birthday milestone comes just days after the monarch celebrated his 19th wedding anniversary with his wife, Olori Abiwumi Owoade.
In a heartfelt tribute shared on Tuesday, he wrote, “19 years together and without a doubt, I would choose you every single time. You are my strength, my peace, my forever. We’ve built an incredible kingdom of love and I wouldn’t trade it for anything in the world.”
Oba Abimbola Owoade ascended the throne following the death of the late Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, one of Nigeria’s longest-reigning monarchs.
Since his installation, Oba Owoade has continued to preserve the traditions and legacies of the Oyo Empire while embracing the evolving responsibilities of a modern royal leader.
His reign has been marked by cultural revitalisation, youth engagement and efforts to bridge traditional leadership with contemporary governance.
The 50th birthday celebration is seen as a reaffirmation of his commitment to the throne and to the people of Oyo.
