The Oluwo of Iwoland, Oba Abdulrosheed Adewale Akanbi, Telu I, on Sunday marked ten years on the throne with a colourful celebration that drew dignitaries, traditional rulers, and invited guests to the King’s Riverside Hotel and Resorts.
Oba Akanbi used the occasion to lament Africa’s poor documentation of its early civilisations, linking it to many of the continent’s present challenges. He also expressed optimism about the continent’s future, insisting that Africa remains the cradle of humanity.
According to him, the absence of structured historical records has slowed the continent’s progress, and reconnecting with its origins is necessary for development. Oba Akanbi stated, “The failure that resulted from non-documentation of our rich beginning has placed us behind. Africa is the source of humanity. In my time, Africans will rise and Nigerians will smile.”
He highlighted strides in education within Iwoland during his reign, noting that the town now ranks among the highest producers of doctorate holders nationwide. He said, “Iwoland values education more than ever before. Today, we are one of the highest producers of academic doctorate holders. Academically, Iwoland has to her credit three private universities, one polytechnic, a sports academy, and one Federal College of Education.”
Reflecting on his stewardship, the monarch said he had restored Iwo’s traditional standing and urged residents and critics to remain development-focused. “Traditionally, I have achieved it. The traditional spirit of Oluwo is alive, very active, and agile beyond relegation. I don’t pay attention to distractions. Only people with positive foresight are riding with us currently.”
He further noted steady economic growth in the town. According to him, “Economic growth in Iwoland has been steady, with improved security and new business investments. Hotels and event centres are multiplying, but we need more production firms to boost employment. Market men and women are testifying to increased sales daily.”
The Oluwo encouraged indigenes to attract investors and urged political officeholders from the town to prioritise its welfare. “Politically, I charge Iwo-born politicians to represent and promote Iwoland interests at all costs. Without political strength, delay may be denial,” he warned.
He added that his palace has evolved into an intellectual and cultural hub that reflects a blend of tradition and modernity. “My reign stands as an exemplary model of this dialogue between tradition and modernity,” he said.
In his goodwill message, the Alaafin of Oyo, His Imperial Majesty Oba Abimbola Owoade, called on residents to support the Oluwo’s developmental drive and offered prayers for Iwoland.
Engr. Joseph Olasupo Olasunkanmi Tegbe, who represented President Bola Tinubu, commended the monarch’s cultural influence. He said, “Iwo’s greatest treasure is the harmony among different religious groups. The president would work to support Iwoland in developmental projects.”
Also speaking, Deputy Senate President Senator Barau Jibrin congratulated Oba Akanbi, noting that his impact extends beyond Iwoland. He described him as a unifier and encouraged him to remain steadfast.
Osun State Commissioner for Water Resources, Sunday Olufemi Oroniyi, representing Governor Ademola Adeleke, praised the monarch’s doggedness and his cooperation with the state government. He affirmed that the government would continue to support development efforts in the town.
