oluwo

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July 1, 2026

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The oluwo is the traditional title for the king of the Yoruba kingdom of Iwo, located in Osun state, Nigeria. Founded in the 16th or 17th century, Iwo is situated on a hill at the edge of savanna and forest. The oluwo's palace, which now houses modern buildings and local government offices, signifies the ruler's continued social and traditional importance as an advisor. The primary economic activity in Iwo is the cultivation and export of cacao, with staple crops like yams, corn, cassava, and palm oil also grown. Cotton weaving and dyeing are traditional crafts. The Yoruba people, a major ethnic group in Nigeria, are known for their skilled craftsmanship, including bronze casting, weaving, and carving.12

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Iwo
Yoruba

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Iwo
…of the Iwo kingdom, the oluwo (“king”), whose palace now incorporates a modern building and the local government offices, still retains important social and traditional functions and is an adviser to the local government. Within the town, many of the traditional Yoruba compounds with their rectangular courtyards have been replaced…
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…of the Iwo kingdom, the oluwo (“king”), whose palace now incorporates a modern building and the local government offices, still retains important social and traditional functions and is an adviser to the local government. Within the town, many of the traditional Yoruba compounds with their rectangular courtyards have been replaced…
Read More