Women are the core foundation of community growth, driving social cohesion, economic stability, and long-term development
They contribute heavily to local economies through trade, agriculture, and entrepreneurship, often supporting family income and reducing poverty.
As mothers, teachers, and role models, women shape the values, education, and future potential of younger generations.
Women spearhead local public health initiatives, focusing strongly on maternal care, child nutrition, and overall family well-being. They omen preserve cultural traditions and lead grassroots efforts that bridge divides and foster harmony.
Apart from their numerical strength, the feminine gender have great
potentials necessary to evolve a new economic order, to accelerate
social and political development, and consequently transform the
society into a better one.
There is hardly any culture, east or west, where women are not
“home builders”. As home builders, they are therefore “nation
builders.
Against this background, His Imperial Majesty, the Alaafin and Paramount Ruler of Oyo Kingdom , Oba Engineer Abimbola Akeem Owoade 1, thought it expedient to appoint a conscientious woman who is characterized by a strong sense of duty, exceptional self-discipline, and a meticulous approach to her personal and life to oversee the affairs of women for the overall development of the City.
Hence, his choice of Alhaja Muinat Adenike Apeke Adeniran, as the new IYALODE of Oyo.
The colourful installation ceremony took place last Friday at the Aganju ForeCourt in the ancient Palace.
In her address, Wife of the Alaafin, Ayaba Abiwunmi Olajumoke Owoade said that that one who holds title from the Alaafin must be found suitable for it, hence the need for the new Iyalode to comport herself in such manner because the chieftaincy title is rooted with tradition.
She stated that the new Iyalode should let her allegiance be total to the Alaafin, acts as the emotional and structural backbone of the City through active caregiving, economic contribution, and social leadership.
According to her, “” your true dedication to building the City will consider others more important than yourself. You must showcase this by looking also to the interest of others. You must rejoice in opportunities to be inconvenienced, understanding that these inconveniences are gifts from the gracious hand of God that desires a heart of compassion and mercy.
“” As a woman who is truly dedicated to building the City , you must be hospitable, seeking to swing wide the doors of heart and home. Your neighborhood will find respite within the walls of your home, and refuge in the conversation and encouragement you offer.
“” You must not allow divisive or cruel speech in your presence, but uplift others, and maintain confidences whenever safe to do so. Be quick to praise and slow to criticize. You must be mindful of how your words and actions impact the people, striving to be fair, kind, and emotionally aware, and be selfless, stand up consistently for what’s good and right even when it’s unseen or unpopular, and never yield integrity to what’s convenient or common””.
Responding, the new Iyalode of Oyo, Alhaja Adeniran pledged her unalloyed allegiance to the Alaafin and wellbeing of the people at all times.
She also promise to display great dynamism, and display ingenuity and creativity in finding alternative to any situation, as well as foster and mobilise collectively at creating conducive atmosphere for the peaceful reign of the Paramount Ruler on the throne.
