The ascension of Prince Clement Adesuyi Haastrup as the 49th Owa Obokun of Ìjẹ̀ṣàland marks a historic moment that promises to bring not only great pride to the Ìjẹ̀ṣà people but also a new wave of progress and development. As the soon-to-be crowned His Imperial Majesty, Oba Looja Clement Adesuyi Haastrup, Owa Ajimoko III, the Owa Obokun Adimula and Paramount Ruler of Ìjẹ̀ṣàland, Oba Haastrup inherits the mantle of leadership with a remarkable blend of experience, vision, and dedication to service that will undoubtedly elevate the land of Ìjẹ̀ṣà to greater heights.
Oba Haastrup’s election, conducted by the respected kingmakers of Ìjẹ̀ṣàland and approved by the State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, was a process grounded in the traditions and values that have long defined the Yoruba monarchy. The Owa Obokun is not just a figurehead; the lineage of the title speaks to a deep and storied history within the Yoruba culture. The first Owa of Ìjẹ̀ṣàland, Owa Ajibogun, was a direct son of the legendary Odùduwà, the royal progenitor of the entire Yoruba race. This divine heritage connects Oba Haastrup to a long line of powerful, respected monarchs, reinforcing the sacredness of his leadership.
Oba Adeesuyi Haastrup’s leadership qualities are rooted in his remarkable career and personal ethos. As a trained pharmacist, he possesses the intellectual rigor and discipline required to understand the intricacies of governance and development. His tenure as the first civilian Deputy Governor of Osun State proved instrumental in laying the foundation for the state’s current success. His contributions to governance, economic planning, and social infrastructure during his tenure cannot be overstated. In every sense, Oba Haastrup has demonstrated the kind of leadership that nurtures progress, stability, and trust.
Beyond his public service record, Oba Haastrup is a man of great vision and entrepreneurial acumen. As the driving force behind ENL Consortium, one of the leading terminal operators in Nigeria, Oba Haastrup has displayed an exceptional ability to foster growth and create opportunities. Under his stewardship, ENL Consortium operates Terminals C and D at the Lagos Port Complex Apapa, playing a crucial role in the nation’s trade and logistics sector. More importantly, Oba Haastrup’s commitment to empowering the poor, feeding the hungry, and providing scholarships to underprivileged children has transformed the lives of countless Nigerians. Through his business ventures, hundreds of thousands of jobs have been created, and thousands of scholarships have been awarded to children who otherwise might not have had the chance to receive an education. His philanthropic spirit and dedication to social good have earned him respect and admiration not only within Ìjẹ̀ṣàland but across Nigeria.
Oba Haastrup’s wife, Olori Vicky Haastrup, is equally remarkable. As the Chairman of the Seaport Terminal Operators Association of Nigeria (STOAN), Olori Vicky Haastrup has shown exceptional leadership and influence in the maritime industry. Together, this power couple forms a truly phenomenal family that blends intellect, hard work, and an unwavering commitment to the development of Nigeria and her people.
Oba Haastrup’s vision for Ìjẹ̀ṣàland is a forward-thinking blueprint that seeks to foster unity, drive economic prosperity, and improve the quality of life for the people of Ìjẹ̀ṣàland. In his first official statement, the royal father expressed his commitment to strengthening ties among traditional rulers, chiefs, and elites to ensure sustainable unity in the land. This unity is crucial, not only for cultural preservation but also for driving collective progress across the region.
One of the key areas of focus for the new Owa Obokun will be agribusiness. Oba Haastrup envisions making Ìjẹ̀ṣàland a food basket for the state and the larger South West region. His planned establishment of a mechanized farm in Ilesa for the cultivation of rice and other food crops is just the beginning of a broader agenda to modernize agriculture in the region. This initiative promises to create jobs, boost food production, and drive economic growth, providing lasting benefits for the people of Ìjẹ̀ṣàland.
Oba Haastrup has also expressed deep appreciation for the efforts of various Ìjẹ̀ṣà clubs and organisations that have worked tirelessly to improve social and infrastructural conditions in the region. His promise to collaborate with these groups and build on their achievements will undoubtedly further elevate Ìjẹ̀ṣàland in the years to come.
The emergence of Oba Looja Clement Adesuyi Haastrup, Owa Ajimoko III, signals the dawn of a new era for Ìjẹ̀ṣàland. His remarkable background in business, public service, and philanthropy, combined with his vision for a prosperous future, make him the ideal leader to guide the people of Ìjẹ̀ṣàland towards greater development and unity.
As we welcome the new Owa Obokun, it is imperative that all Ìjẹ̀ṣàs, both at home and in the diaspora, rally behind their new monarch. It is through collective effort, unity, and support that Oba Haastrup’s vision can be turned into reality. The monarchs of the Yoruba people are ordained, and their leadership deserves the full cooperation of all who call this land home. Let us join hands with our new king to foster development, create opportunities, and elevate Ìjẹ̀ṣàland to the greatness it is destined for.
The ascension of Oba Looja Clement Adesuyi Haastrup as the Owa Obokun is more than just the rise of a new monarch. It is the beginning of a brighter, more prosperous future for Ìjẹ̀ṣàland—a future rooted in unity, development, and opportunity. The Ìjẹ̀ṣà people are fortunate to have a leader with such vision, integrity, and commitment. Together, let us support His Imperial Majesty as he ushers in a new era of progress for Ìjẹ̀ṣàland.