The ancient city of Ile-Ife on Sunday witnessed a historic celebration as the Ooni of Ife and Arole Oodua, His Imperial Majesty, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja II, conferred on the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, the distinguished title of Yeye Asiwaju Gbogbo Ile Oodua—the foremost mother of the Yoruba nation.
The installation, a major highlight of the grand finale marking the Ooni’s 10th Coronation Anniversary, held at Afewonro Park, Enuwa Square, drew a galaxy of traditional and political dignitaries from across Nigeria. The rites, in full adherence to ancient Yoruba traditions, were conducted by palace chiefs before Senator Tinubu was formally presented to the people of Ile-Ife and the entire Yoruba race.
Speaking with deep emotional reflection, Ooni Ogunwusi recalled the significance of the First Lady’s unwavering support over the past decade.
“She stood with me exactly 10 years ago when destiny called,” the monarch said. “She remains a mother to this nation—merciful, supportive, and divinely appointed.”
The Ooni also extended appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, acknowledging his continued support for the palace and the Yoruba people.
In her remarks, an elated Senator Oluremi Tinubu expressed profound gratitude, describing the title as a divine honour. She commended the Ooni for his visionary leadership and his efforts in elevating Yoruba culture onto the world stage.
“This honour is humbling,” she said. “God has assured us that greater joy and restoration are ahead for our nation. We are merely at the beginning of renewed glory.”
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who played a crucial role during events preceding the Ooni’s emergence in 2015, praised the monarch’s decision, describing Senator Tinubu as a woman of grace and positive influence. He encouraged her to continue her humanitarian interventions.
Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State, in a goodwill message, described Senator Tinubu as a pillar of development whose contributions continue to impact communities nationwide. He also celebrated the Ooni’s decade-long reign, which he credited with promoting unity, peace, cultural renaissance, and economic advancement.
“Kabiyesi has redefined leadership and deepened Yoruba cultural heritage,” Adeleke said.
“His reign reflects purposeful engagement, global relevance, and strategic investment in youth empowerment.”
Also present were top traditional rulers, including Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar; Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III; and the Soun of Ogbomosho, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Laoye. Former First Lady Dame Patience Jonathan also graced the event.
State governors in attendance included Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos, Prince Dapo Abiodun of Ogun, as well as former Ogun State Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun. Ministers’ wives, state first ladies, and prominent businesswomen such as Chief (Mrs.) Toyin Kolade added glamour and colour to the royal ceremony.
The event was further enriched by the presence of leading monarchs from across Yorubaland—among them the Orangun of Ila, Oba Wahab Oyedotun; the Elegushi of Ikate Kingdom, Oba Saheed Ademola Elegushi; Oloro of Oro Kingdom, Oba Joel Oyatoye; and Oba Adedokun Abolarin of Oke-Ila.
The ceremony marked a fitting climax to a week-long commemoration of Ooni Ogunwusi’s impactful 10-year reign—characterised by global cultural diplomacy, youth empowerment initiatives, economic interventions, and renewed pride in Yoruba identity.
