President Bola Tinubu has congratulated the Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty Ewuare II, on the 10th anniversary of his coronation, describing the monarch as a symbol of culture, dignity and integrity.

Tinubu conveyed his congratulations in a personally signed statement on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, while also celebrating the traditional ruler on his 73rd birthday.

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The President praised Oba Ewuare II for his leadership and commitment to preserving the history, traditions and cultural heritage of the Benin Kingdom.

“On behalf of my wife and the Federal Government, I heartily congratulate His Royal Majesty, Oba of Benin, Ewuare II, CFR, Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, on his 10th anniversary on the throne of his forefathers and his 73rd birthday on October 20,” Tinubu said.

He described the monarch as an embodiment of enduring dignity and culture whose historical consciousness reflects the values of his people and Nigerians generally.

Tinubu said the Oba’s 10 years on the throne represented an important milestone marked by royal stewardship, service and dedication to preserving the heritage of the Benin people.

“Your Majesty, this is no ordinary milestone. It is a celebration of ten years of royal stewardship, service, and an unwavering commitment to preserving the heritage and traditions that define the Benin people,” the President said.

The President also commended Oba Ewuare II for sustaining the dignity of the traditional institution and inspiring confidence among his subjects.

“For a decade, you have continued to demonstrate your leadership by sustaining the dignity of the Royal institution and inspiring confidence,” he added.

Tinubu praised the monarch’s wisdom, courage, restraint and commitment to peace, describing him as a guardian of communal values and a rallying point for the aspirations of his people.

“I have watched with keen admiration the wisdom, courage, restraint, and an abiding sense of peace that have underscored your years on the throne. You have remained a symbol of grace and integrity, a fountain of wisdom, a guardian of communal values, and a rallying point for the people’s aspirations,” he said.

The President also highlighted the Oba’s efforts to facilitate the return of stolen Benin artefacts from abroad.

Tinubu described Ewuare II as a remarkable custodian of one of Africa’s most enduring monarchies and commended his role in efforts to repatriate the artefacts.

“I commend your efforts to repatriate the stolen Benin artefacts and your role as a remarkable custodian of one of Africa’s most enduring monarchies,” Tinubu said.

The President wished the monarch renewed strength, sound health and greater wisdom as he begins another year of life.

He also expressed hope that the Oba’s reign would witness further achievements in cultural preservation and social development.

“As Your Majesty celebrates another year of life, may this birthday usher in renewed strength, greater wisdom, sound health, and an even deeper inspiration for the young to cherish their heritage.