– Adejola Adeyemi Crown
The name of Oba Hameed Adekunle Oyelude Makama, CON, the Olowu of Owu-Kuta, resonates far beyond the boundaries of Kuta town in Osun State.
Since ascending the ancient throne on September 15, 2012, Oba Makama has exemplified what it means to be a traditional ruler who blends royal authority, cultural preservation, grassroots development, and national advocacy. His leadership style has redefined kingship in Osun and indeed across Yorubaland, earning him both national honours and grassroots reverence.
Oba Makama, widely known as Tegbosun III, holds the prestigious title of Permanent Chairman of the Royal Council of all Owu Obas and Chiefs in Yorubaland. Under his reign, a historic milestone was achieved the long-divided four ruling houses of Owu-Kuta set aside their differences and embraced unity. His diplomatic approach and commitment to harmony have not only strengthened the Owu traditional institution but also set a template for peace-building in traditional communities.
The Olowu of Kuta’s reign is equally synonymous with infrastructural development and tourism promotion. His vision of turning Kuta into a cultural and tourism hub has seen remarkable strides. The town, known for its rich heritage, plays host to the annual Anlugbua Festival a celebration of Akindele Anlugbua, the legendary hunter and founder of the community.
Oba Makama’s commitment to preserving this festival is a reflection of his belief that cultural heritage is the backbone of any society. “Any traditional ruler who runs away from tradition is a misfit,” he once remarked, reflecting his passion for culture.
Perhaps one of his most notable contributions to infrastructure is his pivotal role in the construction of the Lt-Gen TY Buratai Bailey Bridge, which connects Kuta to neighboring Ede across the Osun River. The bridge, named after his close ally, former Chief of Army Staff and Nigerian Ambassador to Benin Republic, Lt-Gen Tukur Yusuf Buratai, is a testament to the monarch’s dedication to development and accessibility for his people.
Before his ascension to the throne, Oba Makama was actively involved in national politics and leadership. A trained civil engineer, he once chaired the United Nigeria People’s Party (UNPP) in Osun State and played a prominent role as one of the key drivers of the presidential ambition of former Head of State, Gen. Ibrahim Babangida (rtd). His background in politics, engineering, and administration provided him with the tools to navigate the complexities of leadership both within and beyond traditional circles.
Beyond Osun State, Oba Makama is a respected national figure. His consistent advocacy for national security, particularly in support of the Nigerian military, earned him recognition from the highest levels of government. In May 2023, former President Muhammadu Buhari conferred upon him the national honour of Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CON), in acknowledgment of his unwavering support for national unity, security, and development.
The monarch’s influence also extends to the media space. As a Life Patron of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Osun State, Oba Makama’s contributions to promoting press freedom and supporting journalists have been widely commended. In 2022, he was inducted into the NUJ Hall of Fame, solidifying his status as a defender of truth and the rights of the media.
In July 2024, the Olowu of Kuta celebrated his 60th birthday, an event that drew national dignitaries and global attention. Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who attended the ceremony, lauded Oba Makama’s palace as “world-class,” while Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State and other top government officials paid glowing tributes to his leadership. His close friend, Lt-Gen Buratai, described him as “a detribalized Nigerian,” further illustrating his role in fostering national unity.
The Olowu’s palace itself is a symbol of grandeur, widely regarded as one of the most magnificent traditional palaces in Osun State. Yet, beyond the physical structures, his leadership is defined by tangible impacts in the lives of his people. From facilitating community development projects to promoting cultural festivals, advocating women’s inclusion in governance, and ensuring youth empowerment, Oba Makama has consistently prioritized the welfare of his subjects.
A progressive thinker, Oba Makama has also been a strong advocate for the inclusion of women in leadership. He has called on the Osun State government to implement 35 percent affirmative action for women, a move praised by various women’s groups, including the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ).
In 2025, he was inducted into the Nigerian Books of Record Hall of Fame, a recognition that further affirmed his efforts as a cultural ambassador, nation-builder, and advocate of peace and development.
His commitment to youth empowerment is equally commendable. The Olowu of Kuta believes that a nation’s prosperity is anchored on the energy and innovation of its youth. Through various programs and community initiatives, he has supported skill acquisition, mentorship, and educational advancement for young people in Kuta and beyond.
As a bridge between tradition and modernity, Oba Makama understands the evolving role of traditional institutions in contemporary governance. He has consistently advocated for stronger collaboration between traditional rulers and government agencies, insisting that development cannot be sustained without community involvement. His palace is known as an open-door institution where government officials, community leaders, and ordinary citizens are welcomed to discuss issues of development, security, and welfare.
Oba Makama’s relationship with military and security agencies also underscores his patriotism and desire for a secure Nigeria. His advocacy for the welfare of soldiers and military families, especially in times of national security challenges, earned him accolades within the defense community. He believes that a peaceful and secure society is the foundation upon which meaningful development can thrive.
Beyond Nigeria’s borders, Oba Makama’s influence extends to diplomatic circles, especially through his long-standing friendship with Lt-Gen Buratai, now former Nigeria’s Ambassador to Benin Republic. This connection has fostered cultural exchange and strengthened relations between Nigeria and neighboring countries.
The Olowu of Kuta’s reign is also marked by his passion for education. He has supported numerous scholarship schemes and infrastructural projects in schools within Kuta and its environs. His belief that education remains the bedrock of development drives his commitment to ensuring that every child has access to quality learning opportunities.
Oba Makama’s achievements have not gone unnoticed among his peers and subjects. He is widely regarded as a monarch who is deeply invested in the progress of his people, never shying away from initiatives that can bring growth, peace, and unity. His reign has also helped project the cultural identity of Kuta to national prominence.
His palace, often described as an architectural masterpiece, serves not only as a royal residence but as a centre for cultural gatherings, policy discussions, and inter-community engagement. The Olowu has hosted several conferences, workshops, and cultural exhibitions, showcasing the rich heritage of Owu people and promoting tourism potential.
For many, Oba Makama represents the embodiment of responsible monarchy, where traditional rulers serve not only as custodians of culture but as catalysts for positive change. His accessibility, intellectual depth, and unwavering commitment to the advancement of his domain have earned him respect among his contemporaries and admiration from his subjects.
In addition to his developmental strides, Oba Makama is a firm believer in inter-faith harmony. He has maintained a palace that welcomes adherents of different faiths, promoting tolerance, peace, and unity among diverse religious groups in his kingdom.
In conclusion, the impact and influence of Oba Hameed Adekunle Oyelude Makama, the Olowu of Owu-Kuta, transcends traditional boundaries. His reign has been defined by cultural preservation, infrastructural development, youth empowerment, national advocacy, and unwavering support for peace and security.
As a royal father who blends tradition with progressive leadership, Oba Makama continues to leave an indelible mark on the socio-cultural, political, and developmental landscape of Osun State and Nigeria at large. His story is a testament to how visionary traditional rulers can shape society for the better, fostering unity, progress, and prosperity for generations to come.
Adejola Adeyemi Crown
Journalist and Media Expert
adejolanews@gmail.com
07066518087
