The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, has asserted that the Alaafin occupies the foremost position among traditional rulers in Yorubaland, citing the historical influence of the old Oyo Empire on Yoruba civilisation.

The monarch made the declaration during an interview with Edmund Obilo on State Affairs, in which he maintained that his position was based on historical records rather than on a desire to compete with other traditional rulers.

Asked whether he considered himself the supreme king in Yorubaland, Owoade said, “Historically, yes. If you want to go by history and the contribution of Oyo to Yoruba civilisation, then I would say that the Alaafin is number one.”

His comments come amid past disagreements over traditional hierarchy and supremacy among prominent Yoruba monarchs.

In 2025, the Alaafin was involved in a dispute with the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, over the status and precedence of traditional rulers in Yorubaland.

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The Military Pensions Board (MPB) has honoured a 98-year-old retired Warrant Officer, Echenim Ewemiwe, during a special birthday celebration at Ute-Erumu, near Agbor, in Ika North East Local Government Area of Delta State.

The gesture, led by the Chairman of the Board, Major General JE Osifo, was aimed at celebrating the veteran’s life, recognising his contributions to the Nigerian military and appreciating his years of service to the nation.

The delegation included Navy Commodore Galadima Ciroma, Director of Navy Pensions; Squadron Leader Aliyu Muhammed; and Captain Robertson Akpojovwo, Chairman of the Delta State.

The celebration featured cultural performances, traditional dances and the participation of family members, friends and well-wishers who gathered to honour the veteran and celebrate his legacy.

Speaking at the event, Major General Osifo acknowledged the sacrifices and contributions of military veterans across the country and reaffirmed the Board’s commitment to their welfare and well-being.

He emphasised that the welfare of retired military personnel remained a priority for the Board, stressing the importance of recognising and appreciating veterans for their sacrifices and dedicated service to the nation.

Other dignitaries at the occasion included the traditional ruler, the Aruwe of Ute-Erumu, members of the clergy and community leaders.

In a vote of thanks, the family’s representative, retired Master Warrant Officer Chuks Echenim, expressed appreciation to the MPB Chairman for travelling to Delta State to celebrate with their father and honour him on his special day.

The visit highlights the Military Pensions Board’s efforts to recognise the contributions of military veterans beyond pension administration, while promoting their dignity, honouring their sacrifices and demonstrating continued support for those who served the nation.

Source: GOV.NG

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The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has commissioned a remodelled basic school in Ezomo Community, Benin City, Edo State, as part of efforts to strengthen civil-military relations and support educational development in host communities.

Lieutenant General Shaibu commissioned the facility on Friday, November 6, 2026, under the Nigerian Army’s non-kinetic strategy aimed at building mutual trust and promoting grassroots development across the country.

The Chief of Army Staff said civil-military cooperation projects were important in complementing government efforts to provide essential social amenities, stressing that sustainable security requires community engagement alongside military operations.

He expressed confidence that the improved learning facilities would enhance pupils’ academic performance and strengthen relations between military formations and civilian populations. He also urged community leaders to protect the facility against vandalism.

Lieutenant General Shaibu commended the Chief of Army Standards and Evaluation, Major General Bobby Ugiagbe, for initiating and executing the project in his home community, describing the initiative as a demonstration of commitment to social responsibility and institutional values.

Earlier, Major General Ugiagbe explained that the project was executed under the Nigerian Army’s Civil-Military Cooperation Programme to give back to the community. He expressed appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff for providing the leadership and resources needed to complete the project.

The Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, said the Nigerian Army would continue to implement non-kinetic civil-military interventions across its operational theatres to strengthen public support and promote lasting peace.

Source: GOV.NG

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