A group of Nigerian professionals abroad, the Omituntun Initiative in the Diaspora (OID), has described the newly prestigious chieftaincy title conferred on Oyo State, Governor, Seyi Makinde, as the Aare Omoluabi of Akure Kingdom, as a result of Makinde’s outstanding promotion of Yoruba cultural values, commitment to public service, and people-centered governance.
The title was bestowed on Governor Makinde by the Deji of Akure Kingdom, Oba (Dr.) Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, Odundun II, CFR, during a grand ceremony in Akure, the Ondo State capital. The governor’s wife, Tamunominini Makinde, was also honoured with the title of Yeye Aare Omoluabi, marking them as a couple deeply committed to societal development and cultural preservation.
Reacting to the development, OID, a network of Nigerian professionals abroad, applauded the recognition and described it as a “well-deserved honour” that reflects the Governor’s integrity, humility, and people-centered leadership.
In a statement signed by Barrister Ayotomiwa Adebayo, the group’s spokesperson, OID lauded Governor Makinde’s exceptional leadership, selfless service to humanity, unwavering commitment to the welfare of the people, his drive to promote Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage, and his consistent effort to deliver sustainable development rooted in trust, equity, and dignity.
“Governor Makinde’s transformational achievements across key sectors, uplifting the lives of citizens with dignity, and his respect for traditional institutions have earned him the admiration of Nigerians at home and abroad,” the statement reads. “This latest honour is a testament to his character as a true Omoluabi, person of honour, discipline, and noble virtues,’ he added.
The OID North America Chairman, Mogaji Kayode Ogunsola, described Governor Makinde’s rise in Nigerian politics as divinely orchestrated. He emphasised that Makinde’s success as a public servant, despite his engineering background, proves that visionary leadership is possible when anchored in truth, compassion, and competence. Hence, his dedication to public service makes him a beacon of hope for the nation’s future.
“Seyi Makinde is not only the Aare Omoluabi of Akure Kingdom but the Omoluabi of Nigeria. His citizen-centric governance style is founded on fairness, justice, equity, and humility. His title is not merely ceremonial—it is symbolic of the values he lives by and represents,” Ogunsola added.
The group also commended Oba Aladetoyinbo and the Akure Council of Chiefs for honouring a leader who continues to uphold and champion the values of integrity, national unity, and cultural pride.
OID concluded with a call to all Nigerians to pray for Governor Makinde, stating, “May his reign in leadership continue to usher in peace, progress, and prosperity—not only for Oyo State but for the entire nation.”
