Youngest Yoruba Monarch Reveals Who Helped Pay His University Fees
By Dim Oba, LAGOS –Â Oba Oloyede Adekoya Akinghare II, the Arujale-Ojima of Okeluse Kingdom in Ondo State, has expressed gratitude to family members, traditional rulers and supporters who helped him complete his university education while serving as a monarch.
The traditional ruler, widely regarded as one of the youngest monarchs in Yorubaland, graduated from Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), in 2026 after combining the responsibilities of traditional leadership with his academic pursuits.
In a message shared on Thursday, October 22, following his convocation, Oba Akinghare acknowledged that his educational journey was made possible by the sacrifices and contributions of several people, particularly those who supported him financially.
He specifically appreciated his mother, elder sisters, uncles and aunties for their financial assistance, prayers, encouragement and emotional support throughout his studies.
The monarch also recognised the contributions of prominent traditional rulers who attended his graduation ceremony to celebrate the milestone.
Among them were the Ooni of Ife, the Ewi of Ado Ekiti, the Olowo of Owo, the Ogoga of Ikere Ekiti, the Elemure of Emure, the Olupenmen of Upenmen and the Owa of Ayegbaju.
Oba Akinghare also commended the Okeluse Council of Chiefs for managing the affairs of the kingdom during his absence, as well as his Chief of Staff for ensuring the smooth running of official responsibilities while he attended to his academic commitments.
Reflecting on his experience, the monarch described his graduation as a collective achievement, acknowledging that his success went beyond personal determination.
He wrote: “This achievement is a collective victory. Behind the crown is a story of people who gave, prayed, encouraged and stood firm. May Almighty God reward you all abundantly. This milestone belongs to all of us.”
The monarch further appreciated his lecturers, the university management and fellow students for their contributions to his academic experience.
His graduation has attracted attention because of the unusual challenge of balancing university education with the responsibilities of occupying a traditional throne.
Oba Akinghare’s experience highlights the role of family support, community solidarity and personal commitment in pursuing educational goals while undertaking demanding leadership responsibilities.
His appreciation message has also offered a glimpse into the support network behind his academic achievement, particularly the contributions of relatives and traditional institutions to his university education.
