Abdallah, Portugal’s Envoy, others Attend Oba of Benin's 10th Coronation Anniversary Thanksgiving

The service attracted dignitaries, palace chiefs, members of the Benin royal family, traditional leaders and other well-wishers who joined the monarch in expressing gratitude as he marks a decade on the throne.

Among the dignitaries present are the Edo State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Hon. Eugenia Abdallah; Portugal’s Ambassador to Nigeria, H.E. Paulo Martins dos Santos; and Beatrice von Bormann, Executive Director of Museum de Fundatie in Zwolle, the Netherlands.

The thanksgiving at Holy Aruosa Cathedral, a historic place of worship associated with the Benin people, formed part of activities celebrating the monarch’s 10 years on the throne and the enduring heritage of the Benin Kingdom.

Oba Ewuare II was crowned the 40th Oba of Benin on October 20, 2016, succeeding his father, the late Oba Erediauwa, who transited in April 2016 after a 37-year reign.

His coronation followed the traditional succession process of the Benin monarchy, one of Nigeria’s oldest and most enduring traditional institutions.

Born Prince Eheneden Erediauwa, the monarch studied in Nigeria and abroad and served as Nigeria’s ambassador to several countries before ascending the throne.

The anniversary is particularly significant because the coronation ceremonies in 2016 culminated in Oba Ewuare II’s emergence as the 40th monarch of the Benin Kingdom.

On October 20, 2016, the late Governor Adams Oshiomhole presented him with the staff of office at Urho-Okpota, following traditional rites that preceded his installation.

The ongoing anniversary celebrations, scheduled across October and November 2026, feature activities highlighting the kingdom’s cultural heritage, history and traditional institutions.