ATPN National Southwest VP Hon. Apata to Grace Historic Alaafin of Oyo Coronation After Two-Year Wait

By: Manoah kikekon 

Hon. Apata Samson Nunayon and Dr. Wasiu Olatunbosun 

In a landmark event marking the dawn of a new royal chapter, Hon. Apata Samson Nunayon, Vice President of the Association of Tourism Practitioners of Nigeria (ATPN) Southwest, will attend the highly anticipated installation of the new Alaafin of Oyo. 

The ceremony comes after a two-year interregnum following the passing of the revered Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III on April 22, 2022.  

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has officially endorsed Prince Abimbola Akeem Owoade as the next Alaafin, setting the stage for a grand coronation that will attract dignitaries, traditional leaders, and cultural enthusiasts from across Nigeria and beyond. The event underscores Oyo’s enduring significance in Nigeria’s cultural and historical landscape.  

The pre-coronation activities, held in preparation for tomorrow’s grand finale, saw the presence of Hon. Apata, who was invited by Oyo State’s Honorable Commissioner for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Wasiu Olatunbosun. 

The commissioner warmly welcomed ATPN representatives, emphasizing the synergy between cultural preservation and tourism development.  

Apata highlighted the importance of the occasion: “This event showcases the rich cultural heritage of Oyo and reinforces the critical role of tourism in preserving Nigeria’s traditions. ATPN remains dedicated to advancing cultural tourism in the Southwest and beyond.”

 

The coronation of Prince Owoade signifies a pivotal moment for Oyo State, blending centuries-old tradition with contemporary governance. The elaborate festivities are expected to boost local tourism, drawing visitors eager to witness the historic transition.  

As the countdown to the grand ceremony begins, all eyes are on Oyo, where history, culture, and modernity converge in a celebration of royalty and national pride.