The newly elected Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, has expressed his commitment to repatriate artefacts taken by the British in 1895 back to the kingdom. A statement from the Director of Media and Publicity to the Alaafin, Bode Durojaiye, highlighted the monarch’s determination to ensure the return of these cultural items with appropriate compensation.
Following Nigeria’s successful negotiation for the return of Benin artefacts looted in 1897, which were repatriated and handed over to the Oba of Benin, there has been a growing emphasis on the significance of repatriating cultural symbols for the preservation of heritage and identity.
In the statement, Alaafin Owoade also mentioned his efforts in collaborating with international organizations to support the development of his kingdom. He further outlined his plans to address unemployment among graduates by providing vocational skills, empowering widows and widowers for socioeconomic improvement, and continuing the promotion of culture and festivals initiated by his predecessor.
Additionally, the Alaafin expressed his intention to equip degree and Higher National Diploma holders with cyber security skills to deter the desire to seek opportunities abroad. He emphasized his focus on enhancing health facilities during his reign as a key aspect of his legacy.