Falola and Olowu Critique Traditional Title Monetization

During The Toyin Falola Interview, themed “Indigenous Education, Character Formation and the Making of Citizens,” Professor Toyin Falola and Oba Prof Saka Matemilola, the Olowu of Owu Kingdom, expressed concerns over the monetization of traditional titles in Nigeria. Falola noted that he received traditional titles in the past without financial obligations, questioning the trend of linking titles to monetary contributions.

Matemilola acknowledged that financial factors have increasingly influenced the conferment of traditional titles, stating, “We have turned this chieftaincy thing... into who can pay the biggest amount of money.” He asserted that traditional leadership should prioritize service to the community. The Olowu emphasized the importance of recognizing individuals who have made tangible contributions to society before granting them traditional titles.

Additionally, he discussed the Olowu Hope Initiative, which supports education, healthcare, and women's empowerment, having provided interest-free loans to over 300 women without defaults. The interview also featured other academics, including Prof Gabriel Babawale and Prof Bridget Awosika.