The five kings who ruled Nigeria for decades were royal fathers who stood out for their extraordinary longevity on the throne.
These revered monarchs did more than preserve ancient customs; they guided their communities through decades of change, offering stability, wisdom and cultural pride amid Nigeria’s shifting political and social landscapes.
1. Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona — Awujale of Ijebuland (1960–2025)
Until his passing on July 13, 2025, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona was the iconic Awujale and paramount ruler of Ijebuland, Ogun State. Crowned on April 2, 1960 — the year Nigeria gained independence — he reigned for an extraordinary 65 years, making him Nigeria’s longest-serving traditional ruler in modern history. Born on May 10, 1934, Oba Sikiru hailed from the Anikinaiya royal house and was celebrated for championing Ijebu unity, educational advancement and socio-economic development.
Read also: Oba Sikiru Adetona: The unyielding Awujale who reigned with modernity and defiance
2. Oba Okunade Sijuwade — Ooni of Ife (1980–2015)
Known for his regal charisma and deft diplomacy, Oba Okunade Sijuwade, the 50th Ooni of Ife, reigned for 35 years until his death in July 2015. A business magnate before ascending the throne, the Ooni leveraged his corporate experience to strengthen the ancient city of Ile-Ife, the cradle of the Yoruba people. He brokered peace among Yoruba monarchs, promoted cultural revival, and fostered greater unity among the Yoruba both at home and in the diaspora. Internationally, he was a respected figure, championing Nigeria’s cultural heritage on the global stage.
Read also: Journey into royalty: 12 things you didn’t know about the Ọọni of Ifẹ
3. Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III — Alaafin of Oyo (1970–2022)
Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III was the longest-reigning Alaafin of Oyo in recorded history, ruling for 52 remarkable years. Ascending the throne on November 18, 1970, he was widely revered as a custodian of Yoruba history and a repository of traditional wisdom. Known for his flamboyant royal court and rich ceremonies, the Alaafin embodied the grandeur of the ancient Oyo Empire while deftly engaging with the realities of modern governance. He was an outspoken voice on Yoruba identity and rights, often advising successive governments on traditional and constitutional matters. He passed away on April 22, 2022, at age 83, leaving behind a powerful legacy as one of the most influential traditional rulers of his era.
4. Oba Oladunni Oyewumi Ajagungbade III — Soun of Ogbomoso (1973–2021)
Installed as Soun of Ogbomoso on October 24, 1973, Oba Oladunni Oyewumi Ajagungbade III ruled for 48 years until his death on December 12, 2021. Known for his progressive mindset, he spearheaded the transformation of Ogbomoso from a sleepy town to a bustling urban centre. A successful businessman before his coronation, the Soun combined commerce and culture, ensuring development projects flourished under his watch. His reign cemented Ogbomoso’s reputation as a peaceful and prosperous city in Oyo State.
Read also:The Oba of Benin: When the leopard takes leave of the Savannah bush
5. Oba Erediauwa — Oba of Benin (1979–2016)
Oba Erediauwa, born Prince Solomon Aiseokhuoba Igbinoghodua Akenzua, was the 38th Oba of Benin, a kingdom renowned for its ancient bronzes and rich courtly traditions. Ascending the throne on March 23, 1979, he ruled for 37 years until his death on April 29, 2016, at the age of 92. Before his coronation, he had a distinguished civil service career, including as a federal permanent secretary. As monarch, he was a symbol of unity for the Edo people, promoting peace and cultural renaissance. He also oversaw the repatriation efforts for Benin’s looted artefacts, a cause his son and successor, Oba Ewuare II, continues to champion.
