The Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrosheed Adewale Akanbi, has said that Africa’s failure to properly document its early civilisations and achievements has contributed significantly to the continent’s slow pace of development. The monarch said that the absence of structured historical records has denied Africa the opportunity to fully showcase its contributions to humanity and build modern systems rooted in its rich cultural heritage.
Oba Akanbi made the remarks on Sunday during the grand finale of events marking his 10th coronation anniversary in Iwo, Osun State. The ceremony attracted top government officials, traditional rulers, community leaders, and thousands of indigenes who celebrated a decade of his reign.
Speaking at the event, the Oluwo lamented that Africa has not received due recognition in global discussions because many of its early achievements were never documented. He said the continent must reconnect with its origins to move forward.
“The failure that resulted from non-documentation of our rich beginning has placed us behind,” he said. “Africa is the source of humanity. In my time, Africans will rise and Nigerians will smile.”
The monarch stressed that Africa’s civilisation did not begin with colonial rule, noting that many kingdoms across the continent had established systems of governance, trade, culture, and science long before foreign influence. He said countries that properly documented their histories have used such knowledge to build strong nations, adding that Africa must do the same.
Oba Akanbi also highlighted improvements in education within Iwoland over the past decade. He said the town has become one of the highest contributors of doctorate holders in Nigeria, reflecting the community’s growing interest in academic pursuit.
“Iwoland values education more than ever before. Today, we are one of the highest producers of academic doctorate holders,” he said.
The Oluwo listed the educational institutions within the community, noting that Iwo hosts three private universities, one polytechnic, a sports academy, and one Federal College of Education. He said the presence of these institutions is helping to transform the area by attracting students, lecturers, and investment.
Reflecting on his 10 years on the throne, Oba Akanbi said he had successfully restored Iwo’s traditional influence and ensured that the cultural identity of the Oluwo stool remains respected across Yorubaland and Nigeria.
“Traditionally, I have achieved it. The traditional spirit of Oluwo is alive, very active, and agile beyond relegation,” he said. “I don’t pay attention to distractions. Only people with positive foresight are riding with us currently.”
The monarch, known for his modern approach to traditional rulership, said his palace has become a centre for intellectual and cultural exchange. He explained that his reign represents a balance between tradition and modernity, helping the community adapt to 21st-century realities without losing its cultural essence.
“My reign stands as an exemplary model of this dialogue between tradition and modernity,” he added.
Oba Akanbi said Iwoland has experienced steady economic growth in recent years, with improved security and the entrance of new businesses into the community. He said the increase in hotels, event centres, and other commercial activities shows that investors now see Iwo as a safe and profitable environment.
“Hotels and event centres are multiplying, but we need more production firms to boost employment,” he said.
He highlighted the need for industries that can create jobs for young people and reduce financial dependency within extended families. He urged indigenes at home and abroad to attract investors to support Iwo’s continued growth.
The Oluwo also used the anniversary celebration to send a message to political leaders from Iwo. He said political influence remains essential for community development and urged elected officials to prioritise the interests of Iwoland wherever they serve.
“Politically, I charge Iwo-born politicians to represent and promote Iwoland interests at all costs. Without political strength, delay may be denial,” he warned.
The monarch said political unity and strong representation at both state and federal levels will help Iwo achieve long-term development goals.
Representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the event, engineer Joseph Olasupo Olasunkanmi Tegbe praised the Oluwo’s efforts to promote cultural revival and community harmony. Tegbe said the President recognised the peaceful coexistence among different religious groups in Iwo and would continue to support the town in its development initiatives.
“Iwo’s greatest treasure is the harmony among different religious groups. The President will work to support Iwoland in developmental projects,” he said.
The Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin, also congratulated Oba Akanbi on his 10th anniversary. He said the Oluwo’s influence extends beyond Iwoland and described him as a unifying traditional ruler.
“What the Oluwo is doing for his kingdom transcends Iwoland,” Jibrin said. “He is a unifier, and I urge him to continue on this path.”
Representing Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke, Sunday Olufemi Oroniyi, the Commissioner for Water Resources, described the Oluwo as a dogged ruler who has shown consistent support for government policies and programmes.
He confirmed that Oba Akanbi’s number four position in the Osun State Council of Traditional Rulers would remain unchanged. This position reflects the traditional influence and political significance of the Oluwo within Osun State.
The event drew several prominent traditional rulers, including the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade, and the Owa of Ijeshaland, Oba Adesuyi Clement Haastrup. Others present included top federal and state officials, as well as the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola.
Colourful cultural displays, music and performances marked the celebration, showcasing the rich heritage of Iwoland and reaffirming the monarch’s commitment to preserving Yoruba traditions.
