Royal Blessing: Alaafin Owoade Welcomes New Babaloja of Oyo in Grand Presentation

• Oba Owoade commends Asiwaju Yekeen Abass for his impact on Oyo State commerce • New Babaloja of Oyo, Alhaji Nureni Alade, receives royal nod during familiarization visit • Traders, artisans urged to embrace unity for economic prosperity

It was a landmark day for the commercial community in the ancient city of Oyo as the Alaafin of Oyo, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, opened the palace doors to receive and bless the newly appointed Babaloja of Oyo town, Alhaji Nureni Alade.

The high-profile presentation was led by the Babaloja General of Oyo State, Asiwaju Yekeen Abass, during a familiarization tour aimed at fortifying market leadership within the zone. In a warm reception, Oba Owoade lauded the Babaloja General as a “household name,” noting that his tireless efforts to advance trade across the state have not gone unnoticed.

The royal blessing serves as a significant endorsement for Alhaji Nureni Alade, especially following the Alaafin’s recent firm directive regarding traditional protocols. You will recall that His Imperial Majesty recently issued a stern warning that any chieftaincy or market title conferred within his domain without his explicit approval remains illegal and void. By presenting the new Babaloja for royal recognition, the market council reaffirmed its respect for the throne’s supreme authority.

Earlier in the day, the delegation addressed a vibrant assembly of traders and artisans at the Akesan Town Hall. Asiwaju Yekeen Abass used the occasion to call for a “stronger synergy” between the new Babaloja and the various artisan groups to ensure the town’s commercial engine runs smoothly.

The Oyo State Commissioner for Commerce, Trade and Industry, Hon. Adeniyi Adebisi, who was also in attendance, reminded the stakeholders that “a peaceful environment is essential for business to thrive”. He encouraged the market community to remain united, as internal harmony is the surest path to collective growth.

The presentation was witnessed by a host of prominent figures, including the Iyaloja of Oyo and the Iyalaje of Oyo, signaling a unified and auspicious start for the new market administration.