These are the most powerful first class kings we have in Nigeria

Nigeria is a democratic country but that does not mean it doesn't have traditional rulers who play a huge role in the country. Some of these traditional rulers known as First Class Kings, are particularly important in preserving cultural heritage and influencing socio-political decisions in their respective states.

These monarchs, while holding ceremonial positions, wield significant authority and respect within their domains and beyond.

Here are some of the more popular first class kings we have in Nigeria:

Sultan of Sokoto – Muhammadu Sa'ad Abubakar IV

The Sultan of Sokoto is the spiritual leader of Muslims in Nigeria and head of the Sokoto Caliphate. He holds immense religious and cultural influence, particularly in Northern Nigeria.

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Ooni of Ife – Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi (Ojaja II)

The Ooni is seen as the traditional ruler and monarch of the people of Ile-Ife. Oba Ogunwusi has been instrumental in promoting Yoruba culture and fostering unity among various ethnic groups. 

Oba of Benin – Oba Ewuare II

The Oba of Benin presides over the ancient Benin Kingdom. He is also seen as the custodian of the culture of the Edo people. Oba Ewuare II who was crowned in 2016 is known for his efforts in cultural preservation and the repatriation of Benin artifacts. 

Emir of Kano – Muhammadu Sanusi II

The Emirate of Kano is one of the most prominent in Nigeria. Emir Sanusi was reinstated in 2024 and has been a key figure in promoting peace and Islamic values in the region. 

Obi of Onitsha – Igwe Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe

In the southeast, there is the traditional ruler of Onitsha, Igwe Achebe who plays a significant role in the cultural and economic development. He is seen as a representative of the people of Onitsha to the state and federal levels of government

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Oba of Lagos – Oba Rilwan Akiolu I

The Oba of Lagos, also known as the Eleko of Eko, is the traditional ruler of the region. Oba Akiolu is seen as the ceremonial head of Lagos, Nigeria's commercial hub, and he holds considerable influence in both traditional and political affairs. 

Olubadan of Ibadan – Oba Akinloye Olalere Owolabi Olakulehin

The Olubadan of Ibadan which translates to Lord of Ibadan, is the paramount ruler of Ibadan, one of the largest cities in West Africa. He plays a vital role in the governance and cultural preservation of Ibadan 

Alaafin of Oyo – Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade 

The Alaafin of Oyo is the custodian of the Oyo palace. It is said that The Alaafin of Oyo originated from one of Oduduwa’s seven grandsons who later became Kings.

READ ALSO: Which King has the most beautiful palace in Nigeria?

Olu of Warri – Ogiame Atuwatse III

Leading the Itsekiri people of Delta State, Ogiame Atuwatse III has been a proponent of cultural renaissance and economic development since his coronation in 2021. 

Dein of Agbor – Benjamin Keagborekuzi I

The Dein of Agbor is another of Nigeria's first-class kings. The current Dein of Agbor ascended the throne at the age of two, and he is recognized for his youthful leadership and commitment to the progress of his kingdom in Delta State. 

Other first-class kings/chiefs who may not be as popular but are equally revered include:

• Shehu of Borno – Traditional ruler of Borno, descendant of the Kanem-Bornu Empire.

• Emir of Zazzau (Zaria) – A key traditional ruler in Kaduna State.

• Lamido of Adamawa – Head of the Adamawa Emirate.

• Emir of Ilorin (Kwara)

• Emir of Lafia (Nasarawa)

• Emir of Katsina

• Emir of Bauchi

• Emir of Gwandu (Kebbi)

• Aku Uka of Wukari (Taraba)

• Awujale of Ijebuland – Paramount ruler of Ijebu (Ogun State).

• Alake of Egbaland – Traditional ruler of Abeokuta (Ogun State).

• Olowo of Owo – Important monarch in Ondo State.

• Deji of Akure – Paramount ruler of Akure (Ondo State).

• Olowu of Owu (Ogun)

• Orangun of Oke-Ila (Osun)

• Osemawe of Ondo

• Soun of Ogbomoso

• Eleruwa of Eruwa (Oyo)

• Alara of Ilara (Lagos)

• Ayangburen of Ikorodu (Lagos)

• Eze Aro (Arochukwu) – Head of the Arochukwu Kingdom (Abia State).

• Amanyanabo of Opobo – A key Niger Delta monarch (Rivers State).

• Amayanabo of Nembe – Prominent ruler in Bayelsa State.

• Eze Uzu of Awka (Anambra)

• Eze Nri (Anambra – ancient spiritual king)

• Obi of Aboh (Delta)

• Pere of Isaba (Delta)

• Amanyanabo of Okrika (Rivers)

• Amanyanabo of Bonny (Rivers)

• Tor Tiv – Paramount ruler of the Tiv people (Benue State).

• Ochi’Idoma – Traditional ruler of the Idoma people (Benue State).

• Attah of Igala – Head of the Igala Kingdom (Kogi State).

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