Both Yisa Olaniyanbetter known as Orijajoogun I, was the first-rate ruler of the ancient kingdom of Ipokia in Ogun State, Nigeria. In August 2020, he assumed the throne as the 46th Onipokia of the Old Kingdom of Ipokia.
His reign was marked by commitment to cultural preservation, community development, education, youth empowerment and the development of relations between the kingdom and Nigerians in the diaspora.
Oba Olaniyan was generally regarded as an advanced traditional ruler who skilfully combined his worldly expertise with his own customs and traditions.
He advocated for investment in Ipokia, peace and harmony throughout Yewaland and economic development in the border area.
Oba Yisa Olaniyan Biography
Yisa Olaniyan went to the United African Methodist Church Primary School and Secondary School in Ipokia, Nigeria.
He continued his studies as a flight dispatcher at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Ikeja, where he was employed by the Nigerian Aviation Handling Company.
This experience paved the way for his later career in quality assurance and control.
Yisa Olaniyan studied in the United States at the University of Houston, Downtown, where he obtained a degree in criminal justice. His education and professional expertise have helped him advance to his current positions as President/CEO of Afro-Heritage Entertainment Company and President/Chairman of the AHBEAwards in Houston, Texas.
Career
Before inheriting the throne, he had a distinguished career in the United States, where he studied criminal justice at the University of Houston-Downtown and worked in a variety of industries, including aerospace, oil and gas, renewable energy and community development.
His reign as the 46th Onipokia of Ipokia began in August 2020, and he has received accolades for his contributions to cultural preservation, community development and enhancing relations between the kingdom and Nigerians living abroad.
Oba Olaniyan’s leadership style was characterized by his approachability, friendliness and commitment to preserving Yoruba cultural heritage while encouraging innovation.
His contributions to cultural preservation and community development were rewarded in 2025 when he was inducted into the Nigerian Book of Records Hall of Fame.
Personal life and death
Yisa Olaniyan is married to Folasade Olaniyan and has two sons, Olusola Olaniyan Jr. and Robert Ayobami Adewale Olaniyan. Oba Yisa Sola Adeniyi Olaniyan, the traditional monarch of the old Ipokia Kingdom of Ogun State, has died at the age of 55 after a brief illness in the United States.
His death has evoked great sadness and condolences from various sources including Nollywood actors and community leaders.
