A group of Nigerian professionals abroad, the Omituntun Initiative in the Diaspora (OID), has commended Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, for receiving the prestigious chieftaincy title of Aare Omoluabi of Akure Kingdom.

The group praised the Deji of Akure Kingdom, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, Odundun II, on the title bestowed upon the governor during a grand ceremony in Akure, Ondo State.

It said that conferment of the title on Makinde was as a result of his outstanding promotion of Yoruba cultural values, commitment to public service, and people-centred governance.

The governor’s wife, Tamunominini Makinde, was also honoured with the title of Yeye Aare Omoluabi, in recognition of the couple’s commitment to societal development and cultural preservation.

The group, in its response, applauded the honour and described it as well-deserved, saying that it reflects the governor’s integrity, humility, and people-centred leadership.

The Nigerian professionals abroad, in a statement signed by their spokesperson, Ayotomiwa Adebayo, and made available to The Guardian, also lauded Makinde’s exceptional leadership, selfless service to humanity, unwavering commitment to the welfare of the people, efforts to promote Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage, and consistent delivery of sustainable development rooted in trust, equity, and dignity.

They admired his transformational achievements across key sectors, uplifting the lives of citizens with dignity, and his respect for traditional institutions.

The latest honour is seen as a testament to his character as a true Omoluabi, a person of honour, discipline, and noble virtues.

The OID North America Chairman, Mogaji Kayode Ogunsola, described Makinde’s rise in Nigerian politics as divinely orchestrated.

He emphasised that his success as a public servant, despite his engineering background, proves that visionary leadership is possible when anchored in truth, compassion, and competence.

“His dedication to public service makes him a beacon of hope for the nation’s future.

“Seyi Makinde is not only the Aare Omoluabi of Akure Kingdom but the Omoluabi of Nigeria. His citizen-centric governance style is founded on fairness, justice, equity, and humility. His title is not merely ceremonial—it is symbolic of the values he lives by and represents,” Ogunsola said.

The group also commended Oba Aladetoyinbo and the Akure Council of Chiefs for honouring a leader who continues to uphold and champion the values of integrity, national unity, and cultural pride.