A Decade of the Reign of His Royal Majesty Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, CFR
The ancient Benin Kingdom is preparing for an important royal milestone in October 2026: the 10th Coronation Anniversary of His Royal Majesty Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, CFR, Oba of Benin.
The anniversary celebrations are scheduled to take place in Benin City from 3 October to 25 October 2026, bringing together a programme of activities centred on the Benin monarchy, culture, history and the continuing life of the Kingdom.
The central anniversary date is 20 October 2026, marking ten years since Oba Ewuare II assumed the throne of his ancestors in 2016.
A Royal Milestone
For the people of Benin, a royal anniversary is more than a ceremonial occasion. The Benin monarchy is deeply connected with the history, institutions, traditions and cultural identity of the Kingdom.
The tenth anniversary therefore provides an opportunity to look both backward and forward:
Backward, to remember the history of the Benin monarchy and the traditions inherited from earlier generations.
Forward, to consider the continuing preservation and development of Benin cultural heritage for future generations.
Ten Years of the Reign
Oba Ewuare II became the 40th Oba of Benin in 2016.
His tenth anniversary offers an opportunity for Benin people at home and across the world to reflect on the meaning of the monarchy and the enduring cultural institutions of the Benin Kingdom.
The celebrations also provide an opportunity to place Benin history, language, traditional knowledge, arts and cultural heritage before a wider audience.
Edomaye and the Anniversary
For Edomaye Legacy Foundation, the anniversary is an important cultural moment.
Our interest is not merely in reporting royal ceremonies. We are interested in documenting and teaching the wider heritage surrounding the Benin Kingdom—its language, history, traditional institutions, archaeological heritage, arts and cultural memory.
The anniversary therefore creates an opportunity for responsible cultural education.
As the celebrations approach, Edomaye will continue to examine the history and cultural significance of the Benin monarchy and present educational material for students, teachers, researchers and the wider public.
A Celebration of Heritage
The 10th Coronation Anniversary reminds us that the history of Benin is not confined to the past.
It is a living heritage.
The language is living.
The traditions are living.
The institutions are living.
And the responsibility to preserve accurate knowledge of them belongs to the present generation.
As Benin prepares to mark this royal milestone, Edomaye joins in recognising the importance of preserving the history and cultural heritage of THE GREAT BENIN KINGDOM for generations yet to come.
Edomaye Legacy Foundation
WE ARE IN BENIN.
Forward ever, backward never.
Author: Edomaye Legacy Foundation
Edomaye Legacy Foundation preserves and promotes Edo language, culture, and heritage for learners and future generations. Through digital education, storytelling, and community programs, we ensure Edo traditions and knowledge are actively learned, celebrated, and passed on. Forward ever, backward never.
