The top longest-reigning monarchs in Nigeria’s history discussed in this article were highly revered kings during their lifetime, and even in their death, they are remembered and respected for their courageous and great deeds. They were the pride of the people, both in Nigeria and outside the borders of the most populous Black nation.
These monarchs preserved culture, fought for peace, and promoted development.
Below are the longest-reigning monarchs in Nigeria’s history:
1. Oba Sikiru Adetona
Oba Sikiru Adetona was the Awujale of Ijebu land. He was born on 10 May 1934 to the Royal House of Anikinaiya of Ijebu Ode. He studied accountancy in the United Kingdom and was crowned on 2 April 1960. Afterwards, he became a member of the Western Region House of Chiefs on 5 April 1960. The monarch reigned for 65 years and passed away on 13 July 2025.
2. Oba Lamidi Adeyemi
Oba Lamidi Adeyemi was the Alaafin of Oyo from 18 November 1970 to 22 April 22 2022. He was born on 15 October 1938 to Adeniran Adeyemi, who later became the Alaafin of Oyo in 1945. Oba Lamidi’s paternal grandfather was Alaafin Adeyemi Alowolodu, who ruled during the Kiriji war. Oba Lamidi Adeyemi died at the age of 83 after 52 years on the throne.
3. Oba Okunade Sijuade
Oba Okunade Sijuade was born on 1 January 1930 to Adereti Sijuade, a son of Ooni Adelakan Sijuade, the Olubuse 1, who reigned from 1884 to 1910. Oba Sijuade studied business management at Northampton Technical College, United Kingdom. He became the 50th king of Ile-Ife after being crowned in 1980 and passed away in 2015.
Oba Okunade ruled for 35 years, making him one of the longest-reigning top monarchs in Nigeria’s history.
4. Oba Oladunni Ajagungbade
Oba Oladunni Ajagungbade III, the Soun of Ogbomoso, is also one of the longest-reigned monarchs in Nigeria. Born to Oba Bello Afolabi Ajagungbade II on 27 May 1926, Oba Oladunni Ajagungbade III ruled for 48 years, specifically from 24 October 1973, and died on the throne on 12 December 2021 at the age of 95. Oba Oladunni is credited with various developments in Ogbomoso and ensured its progress.
5. Oba Erediauwa
Oba Erediauwa was born on 22 June 1923 to Oba Akenzua II. He studied Law and Administration at King’s College, Cambridge. Oba Erediauwa ascended the throne of his forefathers on 23 March 1979 and spent 37 years before his demise on 29 April 2016, making him one of the longest-reigned monarchs in Nigeria. He left a legacy of cultural preservation, peace, and wisdom.
Credit: Tribune
