The Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty, Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA) aimed at transforming Nigeria’s tourism sector.
The royal father also expressed support for the NTDA Director-General, Dr Ola Awakan.
According to a statement by the authority, the partnership between the NTDA and OJAJA Pan Africa Ltd, chaired by the Ooni of Ife, is designed to harness Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage, cuisine and hospitality to stimulate economic growth and position tourism as a key pillar of national development.
Dr Awakan described the Ooni as an epitome of culture, a father figure and a strong advocate for youth development, acknowledging him as a distinguished royal leader.
He added that the partnership aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly the drive to diversify the economy away from oil and strengthen public-private partnerships.
“This partnership promises transformative benefits for Nigeria’s tourism industry, including economic diversification beyond oil dependency in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“By utilising our storytelling capabilities, we can generate sustainable revenue and attract investments, create jobs, and boost foreign exchange inflows.” He added.
In his remarks, the Ooni eulogised the DG’s professionalism and dedication, noting his pivotal role in initiatives like the Royal African Youth leadership Forum.
The Ooni encouraged continued promotion of youth interests in tourism, highlighting the DG’s nationwide experience and commitment to Nigeria’s diversity.
He expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for appointing a youthful leader to head the NTDA, remarking that he himself embodies youthful energy in cultural stewardship.
The event featured symbolic gestures underscoring the partnership’s focus with the DG presenting the Ooni souvenirs, including a plaque of Naija Flavour, as emblems to propel Nigeria’s tourism and cultural diplomacy.
…laments over absence of role model in life of youths
The First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, in partnership with the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, and the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), on Thursday unveiled the ‘Dream Centre’—a mentorship and modelling hub designed to guide young Nigerians towards purposeful living and responsible leadership.
The centre, established by the Ooni of Ife within the Obafemi Awolowo University campus in Ile-Ife, Osun State, has been equipped by NITDA with books, digital media powered by Artificial Intelligence, and other resources to support youth development.
At the inauguration, Senator Tinubu emphasized the importance of role models in helping young people navigate life with direction and focus.
She highlighted hard work, discipline, and integrity as key values in shaping the future, particularly for girls, and noted that the centre would provide mentorship, skills development, and value-based guidance to help youths realise their potential.
The First Lady described her own journey as a product of vision, hard work, and divine grace, expressing a desire to serve as a role model for young girls aspiring to achieve great things.
She lamented that many young girls today lack mentors who can guide and inspire them.
According to her, “I should be a case study for young girls. They will talk about the girl child every time but nowadays people don’t have role models anymore, we live in an age and time where, even when people are doing well, out of envy we try to say a lot about them that is mainly not true. Role models are people who helped me shape my life.
“I wanted to be a teacher and I ended up being one. When my husband became governor, I was a house wife and a very good domestic engineer, very loyal. Apart from being a teacher, if you asked me what would I like to be, I like being a housewife and taking care of my home especially my husband. I am,very very territorial and believe all women are supposed to be like that, be territorial around your husband because whoever your husband is that’s who you are.”
“Throughout my career, they have given me a lot of awards but this award, I can’t use it to build any place. You know at times, I get overwhelmed by it but I thought about the camp I will use as a centre, where girls can come in and be inspired and able to green groom these girls using the word of God because the word of God has played a lot in my life.
“This centre is not for girls alone. It is also for boys. Go into that dream centre, be encouraged, dream your own dreams and you will see that and be prayerful. Seek the face of God, don’t be overly ambitious. What you will become God has already deposited in you, don’t be covetous of other people’s dreams. Build yours.”
Mrs Tinubu lauded the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, for his commitment to building the dream centre, urging the university students to take the opportunity the dream centre provides.
In his remarks, the Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa, said the centre converts the power of technology and storytelling to preserve Nigeria’s history.
“This centre has the vision of digital technology, artificial intelligence, and storytelling to preserve our history. In particular, the incredible lives of our First Lady, and the mother of the nation. This centre is a unique centre that converts the power of technology, storytelling, to preserve our history. So that our younger one, and the generation to come will have access to our history and tools to navigate their lives.”
Ooni of Ife, Oba Ogunwusi, in his address, said the dream centre would encourage a lot of young people to achieve their goals.
Speaking about the Firstlady, the monarch said, “You are truly worthy to be celebrated. This place used to be a jungle. My mama is a dreamer. All her dreams come true. Everything she lays her hand upon always prospers. This is why that her life is worthy of emulation. The Senator Oluremi Tinubu Dream Center will encourage a lot of young people,” Ooni noted.
Dignitaries who attended the commissioning include the Vice Chancellor of the university, Prof. Simeon Bamire; the Soun of Ogbomosho, Oba Olaoye Ghandi; the first lady of Osun State, Mrs Titilola Adeleke; Oyo State first lady, Mrs Tamunominini Makinde; Ondo State first lady, Mrs Oluwaseun Aiyedatiwa and Ekiti State first lady, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji.
Others include the gubernatorial candidate of the All Progressives Congress in Osun State, Mr Bola Oyebamiji; wives of National Assembly lawmakers and traditional rulers.
Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi (Ojaja II), yesterday hailed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on reforms, digitalisation of passport regime and installation of cutting-edge technologies for migration management in the country.
The first-class tradition ruler also lauded the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo and the Comptroller-General of Nigeria Immigration Service, Mrs Kemi Nandap, for standing up for the reforms that have brought positive impacts into migration management.
The monarch made the remarks when he visited the headquarters of Nigeria Immigration Service, (NIS) in Abuja to renew his diplomatic passport.
He was received by the Comptroller-General of NIS, Mrs Nandap, alongside members of her management team.
NIS spokesman Akinsola Akinlabi said in a statement yesterday in Abuja that the Ooni expressed appreciation to the government for implementing policies that strengthened migration management, border governance and service delivery within the agency.
The statement said: “The Ooni of Ife, Oba Ogunwusi (Ojaja II), yesterday visited the headquarters of Nigeria Immigration Service for the renewal of his diplomatic passport. The revered royal father was warmly received by the Comptroller-General Immigration Service, K. N. Nandap, and members of her management team.”
Akinlabi said during the visit, the Ooni commended President Tinubu, Dr. Tunji-Ojo and the leadership of Nigeria Immigration Service for the reforms being carried out under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
“The first-class monarch took the opportunity to praise the President and Commander-in-Chief, Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Tinubu, the Minister of Interior, Dr. Tunji-Ojo, and the Comptroller-General on the transformative policies under the Renewed Hope Agenda being implemented at the Nigeria Immigration Service.”
Akinlabi said the commendations reflected growing recognition of the Federal Government’s efforts to reposition Nigeria Immigration Service through institutional reforms and modernisation initiatives.
The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi and notable personalities will grace the 13th edition of the GAH Awards and Business Summit at Eko Hotels & Suites on the 12th of December 2025, a statement by the brains behind the awards, Miss Joy Amiso has said.
Amiso explained that this year’s event would bring the speakers who are coming from public service, aviation, human rights, development finance, legal advocacy, entrepreneurship, innovation, and the creative sectors to discuss the strategic importance and continental relevance of the conversations.
She noted that the event was conceived as a platform for empowering individuals, strengthening industries, and amplifying the voices shaping Africa’s future.
Apart from Oba Ogunwusi, the Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, and the founder of Air Peace, Allen Onyema, will also be among a list of speakers at the 13th GAH Awards and Business Summit, with the Theme “Africa Reimagined: Innovation, Inclusion & Sustainable Growth”.
She said: ”Other confirmed speakers at the event are Dauda Lawal, Zamfara State Governor, Dr. Joe Okei-Odumakin – Founder, Women Arise Initiative, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji Ojo, Minister of Interior, Dr. Adekunle Olayinka, Special Adviser to The Governor on Works & Infrastructure, Senator Ajibola Basiru, National Secretary, All Progressives Congress (APC), Mr. Femi Falana (SAN), among others.
“The continent is at a defining point where creativity, technology, policy reforms, youth-driven enterprise, and cross-sector collaboration are shaping an entirely new Africa. The theme reinforces the GAH mission to celebrate transformation while inspiring new pathways for continental development,” she added.
Alayelua Oba Dr. Michael Odunayo Ajayi, Arowotawaya II, the Elerinmo of Erinmo Ijesa in Osun State, has congratulated the iconic leader and custodian of Yoruba heritage, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Babatunde Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, the Ooni of Ife, as he marks ten years on the throne.
Oba Enitan Ogunwusi became the 51st Ooni and monarch of Ife after his predecessor, Oba Okunade Sijuwade, joined his ancestors in August 2015.
Elerinmo noted that for the past ten years, Oba Ogunwusi’s reign has been impactful in Yorubaland and beyond, marking an era of transformative leadership and harmonious inter-cultural integration among races and polar divides
In a message from the Elerinmo’s palace, Oba Arowotawaya II, whose royal gong on this special day for His Imperial Majesty will pummel, said the leadership of the revered Arole Oduduwa deserves to be celebrated. He said Ooni Ogunwusi is not only a monarch grounded in cultural preservation but also in his ability to connect personally with people from all walks of life.
Oba Elerinmo described the bond between Ooni Ogunwusi and himself as one that exemplifies deep mutual respect and friendship, founded on a shared vision for the progress of the Yoruba race worldwide.
“His ten years on the throne have witnessed an impactful and transformative change. Ooni’s humility, grace, and wisdom are qualities that have made him a beacon of hope, particularly for the youths of our nation.
“He has consistently shown his commitment to nurturing the next generation, empowering them to rise above challenges and become leaders of tomorrow. This he did by the establishment of many impactful projects, such as the Ojaja University for higher education located at Eye Korin in Kwara State, with a campus to be opened in Ile-Ife as part of activities marking his 10th Coronation Anniversary.
Remarkably, Ojaja Malls, an event centre established in various cities that include Ojaja Mall Ife, Akure, Osogbo, and Lagos. In the hospitality industry, the Ife Grand Resort stands as one facility that gave hundreds of youths jobs. Besides that, Ooni has engaged in many empowerment initiatives that have benefited many beyond Yoruba land,” Elerinmo said.
In addition, Oba Arowotawaya II explained how Ooni’s reign has been marked by immense contributions to the advancement of the Yoruba race, noting that his efforts towards fostering unity, peace, and development among the Yoruba people are commendable.
“His Majesty’s passion for empowering the youth, women, and widows has been evident in numerous initiatives that have uplifted many lives, creating opportunities for growth and progress,” remarked Elerinmo.
He extolled Oba Ogunwusi’s giant stride in cultural matters, saying he has been a pivotal figure in elevating Yoruba culture, particularly through his remarkable efforts in transforming the annual Olojo Festival into a world-class tourism event.
He noted that what was once a localized celebration, restricted to the people of Ile-Ife, has now gained global recognition, with guests from various parts of the world attending to experience the rich cultural heritage of the Yoruba people.
“As you celebrate your first decade on the throne, the Elerinmo palace and Chiefs in Council acknowledge Your Majesty’s exceptional leadership skills, wisdom, and your compassionate heart. Your reign has brought unity to the Yoruba land and positioned our cultural heritage on the global stage.
“On this ceremonious occasion, we pray for God’s continued blessings upon His Majesty. May your reign be long, peaceful, and prosperous. May you continue to lead in wisdom, strength, and a deep sense of responsibility toward the welfare of your people, and the entire Yoruba race,” Elerinmo said.
Meanwhile, Ooni Ogunwusi has vigorously re-imagined his reign as a cultural and tourism renaissance for Ile-Ife. Within ten years of ascending the throne, he redesigned Ife land as a “tourism zone,” with the aim of transforming the ancient city into a world-class destination. Under his watch, several heritage sites and cultural assets have been refurbished or rebranded. He has supported the celebration and institutionalization of Yoruba traditional festivals, reinforcing the spiritual and historical identity of Ife and Yorubaland, both at home and in diaspora.
Ooni’s cultural diplomacy has reconnected strongly with the African diaspora, especially in the Americas and the Caribbean, strengthening spiritual and ancestral bonds. For many Yoruba at home and in diaspora, his reign embodies a renewed pride, dignity, and hope, suggesting a future where tradition and progress walk hand-in-hand.
As part of his vision, he initiated the creation of the House of Oduduwa Foundation, through which many of his social, cultural, and development projects are channelled. Ooni Ogunwusi has placed youth and women empowerment at the centre of his reign. Through various programmes under his foundation, he has provided training and support for artisans, craftsmen and women, entrepreneurs, and the less privileged.
Through empowerment schemes, often targeting widows, poor families, or disadvantaged youth, he has promoted social inclusion, dignity, and economic opportunities.
Over the years, he has earned a reputation as a unifier, peacemaker, and bridge-builder, not only among Yoruba sub-groups but also across Nigeria’s complex ethnic and religious divides. One of his early notable acts was to heal a longstanding rift shortly after his coronation, visiting the throne of Alaafin of Oyo, symbolically ending a decades-old institutional discord between Ife and Oyo.
The significance of Ooni Ogunwusi’s achievements lies not just in monuments or ceremonies, but in the transformation of identity, economy, and social fabric, as he has shown that traditional leadership can be a catalyst for modern development, not just symbolic.
Preparations are underway for the inaugural edition of ÀṢÉ10: A Reign of Peace, Culture & Unity, a global cultural festival designed to celebrate Yoruba heritage and strengthen connections across the African diaspora.
Organised by SloweGanzi International, the week-long event will hold from November 30 to December 7, 2025, under the royal patronage of Arolé Odùduwà, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojájá II, the 51st Ooni of Ife.
The festival coincides with the Ooni’s 10th Coronation Anniversary, marking a decade of what organisers describe as visionary leadership dedicated to peace, youth empowerment, and the global renaissance of Yoruba culture.
According to a statement from SloweGanzi International, ÀṢÉ10 represents more than just a cultural gathering. It is a movement to reunite Yoruba people at home and abroad, from Africa to the Americas, the Caribbean, and beyond, in a renewed spirit of shared identity and cultural pride.
The festival will unfold across Lagos and Ile-Ife, combining exhibitions, performances, academic discussions, and traditional ceremonies that highlight the richness of Yoruba civilization.
Activities will include art and cultural showcases, film premieres, scholarly dialogues on Yoruba identity and Pan-Africanism, fashion and culinary displays, as well as music and dance performances blending traditional and contemporary influences.
A royal banquet and fireworks display will crown the week-long celebration in Ile-Ife, often regarded as the spiritual cradle of the Yoruba people.
In addition to the festivities, organisers will unveil plans for the Yoruba History and Arts Museum, a landmark legacy project to be established in Ile-Ife.
The museum is envisioned as a global center for the preservation and promotion of Yoruba art, history, and philosophy, ensuring that future generations can access and celebrate their cultural heritage.
Speaking on the significance of the event, a representative of SloweGanzi International described ÀṢÉ10 as “a call to reconnect, rediscover, and reassert the power of Yoruba heritage as a global force for unity and peace.”
Her Royal Majesty, Queen Aderonke Ademiluyi Ogunwusi, also commended the initiative, noting that the Ooni’s decade on the throne has redefined traditional leadership as “a living, evolving anchor for culture, unity, and development.”
The organisers said the festival aims to promote cultural preservation, strengthen diaspora bonds, foster economic empowerment through tourism and creative industries, and position Ile-Ife as a global hub for African creativity and identity.
SloweGanzi International has called for participation from traditional rulers, cultural custodians, artists, scholars, entrepreneurs, development agencies, and sponsors across the world.
Based in the United States and Nigeria, SloweGanzi International is a global sports and entertainment event company known for creating transformative cultural experiences that connect communities, inspire engagement, and promote social and cultural growth.
The Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, has accepted the role of Royal Patron and Global Ambassador of the African Global Festival Nigeria (AGLOFEST).
AGLOFEST, a cultural and socio-economic platform, is dedicated to celebrating African and Black Diaspora heritage while promoting cultural diplomacy, unity, and global partnerships for sustainable development.
Convener of the festival, Tunde MacAlabi, described the Ooni’s acceptance as a “historic endorsement that reaffirms Africa’s leadership in global cultural dialogue and heritage preservation.”
He recalled that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had earlier been announced as the Grand Patron and Chief Global Ambassador of AGLOFEST.
By assuming this role, the Ooni is expected to champion the festival’s vision to promote African and Black Diaspora unity, strengthen intercontinental collaborations, and inspire young Africans to embrace their heritage with pride.
The maiden edition of AGLOFEST, scheduled for later this year in Abuja, Lagos, and Uyo, will open with an economic summit themed “Integration of the Black Diaspora through Trade, Cultural and Technological Exchange.”
The summit will be followed by cultural showcases, fashion, theatre, film, and gastronomy exhibitions, highlighting the richness of African traditions and contributions to global civilization.
According to MacAlabi, the Ooni’s involvement underscores the importance of cultural leadership in shaping Africa’s narrative in the 21st century.
He added that AGLOFEST would contribute significantly to the Nigerian creative economy, targeting a $100 billion input into the national GDP by 2030.
With the Ooni’s royal patronage, AGLOFEST is now poised to become a defining platform for Africa’s cultural renaissance and global influence.
The Olubadan-designate, Oba Rasidi Ladoja, and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi, have stressed the need for unity across Yorubaland, insisting it must begin with traditional rulers if meaningful progress is to be achieved.
The monarchs made the call on Sunday when the Ooni paid a historic visit to the Olubadan-designate at his Bodija residence in Ibadan.
Responding to the Ooni’s remarks, Oba Ladoja said many dignitaries who had visited him since his selection had consistently urged him to prioritise the unity of traditional rulers and the entire Yorubaland as a divine task.
Highlighting the importance of solidarity, the Olubadan-designate noted that a united traditional institution would be difficult for government to undermine, while also accelerating development and growth in the region.
He added that the overwhelming support and assurances from prominent Nigerians who have pledged to attend his coronation on Friday, September 26, reflect the presence of diverse tribes and political divides in the nation.
Oba Ladoja also appealed to Nigerians, regardless of tribe or political leaning, to always work towards a united country, warning that any crisis would affect everyone collectively.
Commending the Ooni for his reconciliatory leadership among traditional rulers, Ladoja said he would not take the Ooni’s decade-long experience on the throne for granted and would rely on his support as he ascends the Olubadan stool.
Oba Ladoja said, “Like I told all the monarchs who had come to visit, the experience of governance, the antics of politics and business are very different, I don’t have yet the experiences that you have on the throne because ten years on the stool is not a small task. So, I am saying to you that you will be one of my teachers.
“I said the same thing to all other monarchs who have visited me. The Soun of Ogbomoso has been here, Olugbon of Orile-Igbon, Onpetu, Aseyin of Iseyin even others from far and near. Even politicians, all those we served together as governors including Oyinlola, Mimiko, Aregbesola, Daniel, Fayose, Amosun, Adeleke they have all come to greet me. I am really thankful.
“And all the monarchs and governors who came keep assuring me that for God to have preserved me meant that He still has a task for me. And that the only thing they will keep asking and reminding me to pursue is the unity of Yorubaland. The unity of Yorubaland should start from the unity of traditional rulers because if the monarchs are united, the government won’t be able to penetrate our midst.”
Ladoja who was so elated at the visit harped on the cordially that had existed over the years between Ibadan and Ife, saying both ancient towns belong to everybody.
He also appealed to the Ooni to remain focus on the task of unifying traditional rulers, saying, “I know you are celebrating the Olojo festival and you are not suppose to be out. But, because of the love you have for me, made you come to inform me ahead that you won’t be around at the coronation, but I know you will be represented.
“When our forefathers are sowing these seeds, we don’t know it, and if you look at it, those who established Ibadan came from different places to build a fortress together.
“As the Ooni has said, Ibadan progenitors came to establish the town for all of us because every Yoruba man must all have a house in Ibadan. Every Yoruba traditional ruler who has not been to Ibadan or who don’t have a house in Ibadan hasn’t fulfill the mandate because Ibadan is not for those of the past alone.
“We are really blessed. It is because of how Ibadan was started. Everyone would come to Ibadan will always be successful. There’s no one who come to this town who hardly fail, either he was born here or live here or pass through Ibadan, he will always succeed in life.
“Kabiyesi, just the way we all owe Ibadan, so also all Yorubas owe Ife, and God has placed Ooni as the Arole of Oodua to keep taking care of all of us and God will help you to lead us aright. Kabiyesi, I thank you for the support, because when things are really tough, you stood by me and helped a whole.lot.
“We are all happy that the Ooni is here seated. We are all happy with you very well because you are a monarchs who ties people together and you are a monarch who doesn’t inherit enemy.
“I have heard all you said, that all those who offended me should be a bygone. It’s in the past. I thank you for your counsel. There are some lessons to learn from you. Somebody might be older than another, but what someone hasn’t done before, he can’t understand it. There is experience. It is different from position or academic qualifications. I will need to learn so many things from him.
“But, I want to appeal that you exercise some more patience, and help us do more on how Yorubaland will remain united. Although we (Ladoja) understood the language of the politicians, but you understood the language of the traditional rulers, if we put everything together and combine ours with yours, we will succeed.”
Ladoja also added that he will use the opportunity of his reign to ask the Federal Government for the creation of Ibadan state, so as to help the state achieve more as the political headquarters of the Western region.
“The man at the helms of affairs now is our man and I have told him (Mr President), we have fixed it for 26th and he said without any hesitation that he will come. And all the ministers and cabinet members are also assuring that the President will be present. All these are so encouraging to us.
“What we will ask the President is that, we also want Ibadan state. That is when Ibadan will be able to function well as the former capital of Western region because there won’t be any hindrance. Ibadan isn’t enjoying anything at the moment and we want the status to change. Ibadan is an important city in the scheme of things.
“We are happy to have Ooni in our midst. Thank you for coming. We are really happy. You have honored us with this visit and we know it is only because you loved us, we are really grateful.”
He also commended the Ooni for the various philanthropic and developmental gestures, especially through job creating and empowerment for the youth and women, saying, he is giving a new definition to what monarchy used to be.
“Hear all what the Ooni is doing, he is empowering the youths and providing jobs. Life has gone beyond what it used to be and traditional rulers are just no more taking over people’s wives and or just wearing beads around.
“They are now master-servants. Kabiyesi is providing jobs for the youths now, it doesn’t use to be the priority of traditional rulers, but see what the Ooni is doing, providing jobs for many people an showing care for the people. It is commendable and worthy of emulation “, the Olubadan added.
Speaking earlier, Oba Ogunwusi, who was visibly elated and excited at the large turnout and reception accorded him by the residents and Indigenes of Ibadan said Oba Ladoja has been a strong pillar of support to him for many years adn as such is so happy that God made him the nexr Olubadan.
According to him, Oba Ladoja will be the first traditional rulers to have served as governor and Senator in the region.
The Ooni said, “I was very happy when I heard that Baba Ladoja has become the Olubadan-designate, I am happy that he became the Olubadan-designate at God chosen time, he has had a lot of experience being a former Senator and former Governor of the state.
“Baba Ladoja has been a pillar of support to me both morally and spiritually since ten year ago when I became the Ooni of Ife.
“I’ve always been praying for Baba Ladoja to become the Olubadan particularly whenever we are doing Olojo festival and I’m in the seclusion.
“I called Baba Ladoja when I heard about his nomination as the 44th Olubadan designate to rejoice with him, Baba Ladoja is fortunate and people are happy with him.”
He said all Oba Ladoja should be concerned now is the development, progress and unity among Ibadan Oba’s and Yorubaland at large, adding that the Olubadan-designate has became an honey everyone wanted to taste praying, “Your reign as Olubadan will be different, this Olubadan has had a lot of experience.”
He however urged Ibadan people to rally and support Ladoja so that he can have successful tenure as the new Olubadan of Ibadanland.
“Ibadan will receive high profile visitors during the coronation ceremony of Baba as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland. I am imploring the residents and indigenes of Ibadanland including myself because I was born in Ibadan to display the hospitality nature that the ancient town is known for.
“Baba cannot do it all alone. He needs our support as traditional rulers, residents and indigenes of the land. God has been gracious to you, my prayers is that God grant you long life and good health on the throne of his forefathers
Highpoint of the event was the presentation of gift to the Olubadan-designate.
AGLOFEST, a cultural and socio-economic platform, is dedicated to celebrating African and Black Diaspora heritage while promoting cultural diplomacy, unity, and global partnerships for sustainable development.
Convener of the festival, Tunde MacAlabi, described the Ooni’s acceptance as a “historic endorsement that reaffirms Africa’s leadership in global cultural dialogue and heritage preservation.”
He recalled that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had earlier been announced as the Grand Patron and Chief Global Ambassador of AGLOFEST.
By assuming this role, the Ooni is expected to champion the festival’s vision to promote African and Black Diaspora unity, strengthen intercontinental collaborations, and inspire young Africans to embrace their heritage with pride.
The maiden edition of AGLOFEST, scheduled for later this year in Abuja, Lagos, and Uyo, will open with an economic summit themed “Integration of the Black Diaspora through Trade, Cultural and Technological Exchange.”
The summit will be followed by cultural showcases, fashion, theatre, film, and gastronomy exhibitions, highlighting the richness of African traditions and contributions to global civilization.
According to MacAlabi, the Ooni’s involvement underscores the importance of cultural leadership in shaping Africa’s narrative in the 21st century.
He added that AGLOFEST would contribute significantly to the Nigerian creative economy, targeting a $100 billion input into the national GDP by 2030.
With the Ooni’s royal patronage, AGLOFEST is now poised to become a defining platform for Africa’s cultural renaissance and global influence.
But the new Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, took offence, claiming he was the only authority — by law — allowed to confer Yoruba-wide titles, and threatening Armageddon, if the Ooni did not reverse himself within two days!
The making of a royal banger!
Okay, even among the royals, a tiff is not unexpected, though its regularity might be far between. Royals were first human, before a feudal system lofted them above fellow creatures. Still, must royal tiffs be so base, be so crude, be so uncouth, from both sides? Frankly, the exchanges, between the Oyo and Ife courts, are rather forgettable!
By Yoruba sacred myth, Ife is the spiritual fount of Yorubaland — what the late Ooni Okunade Sijuwade, Olubuse II, coined the “Source”, in the bruising royal politics of his day.
Oyo, on the other hand, was the imperial capital, on account of the then fashionable crime of empire building. Pray, how can sacking, maiming and killing a captive people — fellow Yoruba and other folks — be a blessing to anyone, including the cruel imperial power?
So, by myth and brazen power, both Ife and Oyo have a special place in Yoruba history. Which is why you’d expect whatever emanates from either court not to be disagreeable, even if both violently disagree. But the toxin issuing from both courts, over the “Okanlomo” matter is, to say the least, disgraceful.
The Oyo opening salvo: “… It is very obligatory for the Alaafin to call the Ooni of Ife to order and demand revocation of the so-called Okanlomo of Yorubaland Chieftaincy title conferred on Engr. Dotun Sanusi with 48 HOURS (capitals his) or face the consequences.” Crude.
The Ife riposte: “My principal has directed me against issuing a press release on the empty threat of the Alawada Baba Sala” the Ooni’s spokesperson dismissed the threat from the Oyo court as comic relief: as Moses Olaiya, the iconic Baba Sala and late ace Yoruba rib-cracking comedian, provided. Rude.
After everything, the whole huff was needless. Sanusi just said his Chieftaincy was “Okanlomo Oodua”, not “Okanlomo of Yorubaland”! Idle tiff?
Even then, “Okanlomo” is honorific, not a core traditional title. “…of Yorubaland” is also farcical. If the Ijebu were never under the yoke of Oyo, even at the climax of its imperial powers, and the Ijebu are part of Yorubaland, then it’s common logic that the Alaafin couldn’t validly confer any pan-Yoruba title, beyond Oyo’s immediate vanity, and definitely not outside its old imperial boundaries.
Let these two monarchs get busy with serious things. The Okanlomo feuding should be infra dig to their majestic dignities, though the Alaafin would appear more blame-worthy, for opening the front with a vain-glorious attack. Enough!
