His Royal Majesty
Oba (Dr.) Francis Olushola Alao
The Olugbon of Orile-Igbon
His Royal Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Francis Olushola Alao, is a First-Class Traditional Ruler and the Olugbon of Orile-Igbon in Oyo State. Recognized as one of Nigeria’s most progressive monarchs, he represents a seamless convergence of ancient Yoruba heritage and modern intellectual governance. A theologian, accountant, and business magnate turned monarch.
Born into a lineage celebrated for integrity, public service, and traditional excellence, Oba Alao has combined deep ancestral wisdom with modern governance insight. His academic journey pursued within and outside Nigeria laid a solid foundation for his leadership style, which blends intellectual depth, strategic thinking, and compassion for people. His successful private-sector career in business and philanthropy further refined his approach to building strong institutions, empowered communities, and sustainable development models.
Ascending the throne of Orile-Igbon marked the beginning of a transformative era for his kingdom. Under his reign, the domain has experienced renewed growth in education, healthcare, youth empowerment, infrastructure, and cultural tourism, earning him wide respect across Yorubaland and beyond. His service as Vice Chairman of the Oyo State Council of Obas has positioned him as a bridge-builder promoting unity, collaborative governance, and progressive engagement among traditional institutions.
In further recognition of his leadership excellence. Oba serves as the Chancellor of the State University of Medical and Applied Sciences (SUMAS), Igbo-Eno, Enugu State. This appointment highlights his detribalized nature, as a Yoruba monarch guiding a tertiary institution in South-Eastern Nigeria. In this capacity, he provides strategic guidance, mobilizes partnerships, and champions an educational vision built on innovation and ethics.
His Majesty’s influence extends into national discourse and intergenerational mentoring. In recognition of his values-driven leadership and commitment to human capital development, the Chartered Institute of Mentoring and Coaching Nigeria (CIMCN) has conferred upon him the Distinguished Icon of Mentorship and Excellence in Leadership Award.
Oba (Dr.) Francis Olushola Alao remains a beacon of integrity, a royal father who leads with wisdom, serves with courage, and inspires with purpose