The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, has called on Nigerian women entrepreneurs to leverage their growing influence to boost the nation’s economy and strengthen their role in governance.
Speaking during a courtesy visit by the Gbájéníyì of Egbaland, High Chief Temitope Fawehinmi, and her entourage at his private residence in Boroboro, Oyo town, Oba Owoade emphasized the vital role women must play in shaping Nigeria’s socio-economic future.
Highlighting the rapid rise in the population of women in the country, the monarch stressed the need for women to translate their numerical advantage into tangible prosperity and political relevance.
“There must be deliberate, creative effort by women to participate actively in governance and use their entrepreneurial skills to drive economic development,” the Alaafin stated. “Their growing numbers should be reflected in wealth creation and national impact.”
Oba Owoade also praised Chief Fawehinmi for her outstanding achievements in business and advocacy, describing her as a role model for other women in Yorubaland and beyond.
“Gbájéníyì of Egbaland has distinguished herself globally through entrepreneurship. Her success should inspire others to break barriers and leave a lasting legacy,” he added.
The royal visit, according to the Alaafin, signifies the unity and shared cultural heritage of the Yoruba people, reinforcing the need for collaboration across traditional institutions.
In her remarks, High Chief Temitope Fawehinmi, who is also the Financial Inclusion Ambassador for the Presidential Committee on the Aso Accord, expressed her commitment to supporting Oba Owoade’s vision for women empowerment, especially among the underserved.
She urged Oyo women to connect with the broader Gbájéníyì network thriving across Nigeria and take advantage of opportunities in financial inclusion and enterprise development.
The visit drew a distinguished audience, including the Olori Alaafin of Oyo, Princess Folasade Adeyemi (Iyaloja of Oyo Kingdom), Dr. Adekunle Ogunmola, Chief Rotimi Osuntola, Hon. Prince Akeem ‘Skimeh’ Adeyemi, as well as several royal chiefs, Baálẹs, Mogajis, princes, and princesses of the Oyo Kingdom.
