The Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja II, on Monday presided over a historic installation ceremony in Ile-Ife, Osun State, where the President of the Republic of Ghana, H.E. John Dramani Mahama, was conferred with the revered traditional title of Aare Atayeto Oodua of the Source.
The ceremony, which took place at the Oojaja Arena, Ife Grand Resort, within the ancient precincts of Ile Oduduwa, attracted traditional rulers, political leaders, captains of industry and cultural stakeholders from across Nigeria, Ghana and other parts of the African continent.
The title, interpreted as “a president who reorganises the global space for humanity,” recognises President Mahama’s leadership, statesmanship and contributions to African unity and global engagement.
Among the prominent guests in attendance was the Okanlomo Oodua, Chief Jubril Dotun Sanusi, who congratulated President Mahama on the prestigious honour and described the installation as a profound symbol of shared African values and heritage.
“I congratulate President John Dramani Mahama on this well-deserved recognition from Ile-Ife, the Source. This honour reflects his commitment to leadership that transcends borders and prioritises humanity, dialogue and cooperation among nations,” he said.
Chief Sanusi also commended the Ooni of Ife for his consistent efforts in repositioning traditional institutions as instruments of unity and cultural diplomacy.
“His Imperial Majesty has continued to use the revered throne of Oduduwa to promote peace, mutual respect and global understanding. Today’s ceremony reinforces the relevance of our traditional heritage in shaping the future of Africa.”