ROYAL FATHERS, DIGNITARIES, AND SONS AND DAUGHTERS OF AWOWO GATHER IN A GRAND CELEBRATION OF LEADERSHIP, CULTURE, AND LEGACY
Awowo Kingdom radiated splendour, culture, and unity as sons and daughters of the soil, dignitaries, traditional rulers, political leaders, and well-wishers gathered to celebrate the 15th Coronation Anniversary of His Royal Majesty, Oba Abdul Gafar Olasunkanmi Tijani, Gbadewolu I, the Alawowo of Awowo Kingdom.
The historic two-day celebration, held on Monday 22nd and Tuesday 23rd December 2025 at the Ronke Tijani Royal Castle Ground, Awowo, stood as a majestic tribute to a monarch whose reign has been defined by compassion, development, and cultural preservation.
A CELEBRATION ROOTED IN COMMUNITY AND COMPASSION
The anniversary programme beautifully reflected the monarch’s heart for his people. Activities were thoughtfully designed to embrace every segment of society, including community walks with social clubs, special hosting of children, celebrations for the elderly, and support gatherings for widows.
The festivities culminated in a glamorous Royal Night, where culture, music, and tradition blended in a grand display of pride and unity.
ROYAL FATHERS UNITE IN HONOUR OF GBADEWOLU I
The celebration drew an impressive assembly of revered monarchs, underscoring the deep bonds among traditional institutions.
Leading the royal delegation was
His Royal Majesty, Oba (Prof.) Saka Adelola Matemilola, CON,
Oluyalo Otileta VI, the Paramount Ruler of Owu Kingdom.
Other distinguished royal fathers in attendance included:
HRM Oba Solomon Adisa Sokubi – Olu of Ijoko Lemode
HRM Oba Akeem Akinbiyi – Olu of Ajipakuta Land
HRM Oba Akindele Idowu Akinbade I – Alákùté of Akute Land
HRM Oba Saheed Agbaje – Olu of Ilupeju Oke Odo, Gbagura, Abeokuta
HRM Oba Micheal Ajibola Babalola – Onijale of Ijale Papa
HRM Oba Ogungbayi Akanni – Onitasi of Itasi Land
HRM Oba Joshua Akinlolu Oniyitan – Olu Egbado of Ajegunle
HRM Oba Abdul-Fatai Akorede Akamo – Olu of Itori Land, Ewekoro LGA, Ogun State
Their presence added deep cultural significance and regal prestige to the milestone celebration.
POLITICAL LEADERS AND ESTEEMED TITLE HOLDERS IN ATTENDANCE
Prominent political figures also graced the occasion, including:
Adeshina Sikiru Adisa – Executive Chairman, Ewekoro Local Government
Hon. Folawewo Fatiu Salami – Member, Ogun State House of Assembly & Immediate Past Chairman, Ifo Local Government
The event was further dignified by respected female title holders and royal personalities:
Omoba Kehinde Adelanwo – Erelu Aje of Owu Land
Alhaja Laraba Ibrahim Ajisomo – Iyaniwura of Awowo Land
Yeye Seyi Aderinokun – Yeyemeto of Owu Kingdom
Olori Bosun Dosunmu – Olori of Owu Kingdom
Chief Mrs. Bolanle Lawal – Yeye Tayese of Awowo Land (newly conferred)
Community organisations added colour and support, including Awowo County Club, Diamond Sisters Awowo, and Awowo Royal Friends, led by Mrs. Dolapo Adekoya (President) and Alhaja Ramota.
DISTINGUISHED PERSONALITIES AND CULTURAL ICONS ADD GLAMOUR
The celebration attracted notable figures from business and entertainment, including:
Alhaja Bola Muse – CEO, Bamorah Group & Bamorah Foundation
Dr. Ademola George Evans – MD/CEO, MiGO Mobile
Chief Makinde Iskilu – Balogun of Awowo Land
Providing vibrant entertainment was renowned musician Alhaji Abass Akande, whose performance energized the arena and delighted guests. The visual spectacle was heightened as attendees appeared in elegant purple Ankara attire, creating a sea of royal colour across the venue.
CHIEFTAINCY HONOURS AND A LEGACY PROJECT
A major highlight of the anniversary was the conferment of chieftaincy titles on distinguished sons and daughters of Awowo Kingdom, alongside honorary titles bestowed on loyal friends of the kingdom from beyond its borders.
In a landmark moment, Kabiyesi Alawowo also commissioned a new Recreation Centre, a thoughtful legacy project designed as a relaxation and social hub for indigenes and visitors alike — a symbol of progress and community wellbeing.
With abundant hospitality, cultural splendour, and heartfelt reunions, the 15th Coronation Anniversary of Gbadewolu I was more than a celebration of years on the throne — it was a glowing testament to visionary leadership and enduring service.
Indeed, the memories of this royal milestone will remain evergreen in the hearts of all who witnessed Awowo Kingdom in its full glory.
