The Alaafin of Oyo and Titan of Yorubaland, His Imperial Majesty Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, has called on Nigerians to cultivate a positive mindset capable of driving personal growth, strengthening communities, and fostering national development.
According to Bode Durojaiye, the director of media and publicity to the Alaafin, the monarch made the appeal on Thursday at the Alaafin’s Palace in Oyo during activities marking his 51st birthday, which attracted traditional rulers, religious leaders, traders, community groups, and other well-wishers.
Addressing the gathering, Oba Owoade said developing a positive impact mindset goes beyond optimism, describing it as a way of life that shapes people’s thoughts, actions, and relationships with others.
According to him, adopting a positive mindset promotes mental well-being by reducing stress, improving resilience, and enabling individuals to confront life’s challenges with confidence and determination.
“One of the immediate benefits of cultivating a positive impact mindset is its effect on mental well-being. When people focus on the good in their lives and the possibility of positive change, they become more resilient and better equipped to face challenges with optimism,” the monarch said.
The Alaafin noted that resilient individuals view setbacks not as permanent obstacles but as opportunities for growth, adding that such an attitude strengthens not only individuals but also the communities in which they live.
He further stressed that positivity is contagious, saying people who approach relationships with empathy, optimism, and a spirit of collaboration help create supportive environments that encourage peace, unity, and sustainable development.
“In a world that often focuses on challenges and obstacles, adopting a positive impact mindset can transform lives and communities. It inspires resilience, strengthens relationships, encourages problem-solving, and contributes to a brighter future for all,” he added.
The monarch disclosed that although plans had been made for an elaborate birthday celebration, the event was deliberately scaled down in solidarity with pupils and teachers who were abducted by bandits in an Oyo community earlier this year.
He explained that the victims spent months in captivity before regaining their freedom, making it inappropriate to proceed with an elaborate celebration while the incident remained fresh in the minds of many residents.
Also speaking, the Queen Consort, Ayaba Abiwunmi Olajumoke Owoade, expressed her appreciation to the people of Oyo for their unwavering support and goodwill towards the royal family.
She urged residents to continue promoting peaceful coexistence, unity, and mutual respect, describing them as essential ingredients for the progress and development of the kingdom.
Ayaba Owoade also thanked God for His protection, guidance, and good health over the royal family.
The colorful celebration featured cultural performances, traditional chants in honour of the Alaafin, and other entertainment.
One of the major highlights of the event was a live outside broadcast by Dynasty FM, which transmitted its programmes from the ancient Alaafin’s Palace in celebration of the monarch’s birthday.
Packaged by Temitayo Afolabi
