The colourful ceremony, held at the royal palace in Owu Kingdom, drew an influx of dignitaries, well-wishers, and indigenes from across Nigeria and the diaspora.
Gbenga Oso was installed as the Asiwaju Bobaselu of Owu Kingdom, while his wife, Margaret Oso, was honoured with the title of Yeye Asiwaju Bobaselu of Owu Kingdom.
Presenting the chieftaincy certificates, Oba Matemilola commended the couple for their contributions to community development and their commitment to promoting the cultural heritage of Owu people both at home and abroad.
Speaking shortly after the installation, Gbenga Oso expressed deep appreciation for the honour bestowed upon him, describing it as a call to greater service.
“I am profoundly humbled by this recognition from His Royal Majesty and the entire Owu Kingdom. This title is not merely ceremonial; it is a responsibility that I accept with utmost sincerity and dedication. Having lived and worked in the United Kingdom for years, I have seen firsthand the transformative power of structured development, investment in human capital, and strong community institutions.
“I intend to leverage my exposure, network, and experience to attract meaningful investments into Owu land, particularly in areas such as youth empowerment, education, and small business development. Our people are industrious and talented, and with the right support, we can unlock immense economic potential.
“I also see this as an opportunity to strengthen the bridge between the diaspora and our homeland, encouraging more Nigerians abroad to contribute to grassroots development. I pledge my loyalty to the throne and assure Kabiyesi that I will uphold the values, dignity, and progress of Owu Kingdom at all times”, he said.
In her remarks, Margaret Oso described the honour as both emotional and inspiring, pledging her commitment to social and humanitarian causes within the kingdom.
“This moment is deeply significant to me as a proud daughter of this land. Being installed as the Yeye Asiwaju Bobaselu is not just a title, it is a platform for impact, especially among women, children, and vulnerable groups in our society.
“I am passionate about initiatives that uplift families, promote women’s economic independence, and improve access to healthcare and education. I believe that sustainable development begins at the grassroots, and I am committed to working with local leaders, community groups, and development partners to initiate programmes that will improve livelihoods and create opportunities.
She pledged to bring empowerment for women in Owun and Ogun State at large, using her title.
Her words “As someone who has also experienced life in the diaspora, I understand the importance of knowledge exchange and cultural preservation. I will work tirelessly to ensure that our traditions are not only preserved but also appreciated by younger generations.
“I am grateful to Kabiyesi for this honour and assure the people of Owu Kingdom that I will serve with compassion, integrity, and unwavering dedication.”
