Alayelua Oba Dr. Michael Odunayo Ajayi, Arowotawaya II, the Elerinmo of Erinmo Ijesa in Osun State, has congratulated His Imperial Majesty, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Babatunde Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, the Ooni of Ife, as he marks a decade on the throne.

Oba Ogunwusi ascended as the 51st Ooni of Ife in August 2015, succeeding Oba Okunade Sijuwade. The Elerinmo described the Ooni’s reign as transformative, noting its impact in Yorubaland and beyond, fostering intercultural harmony, youth empowerment, and cultural renaissance.

Leadership and Cultural Legacy

In a statement from the Elerinmo’s palace, Oba Arowotawaya II said:

“Ooni Ogunwusi is not only a monarch grounded in cultural preservation but also a leader who connects personally with people from all walks of life.”

He praised the Ooni’s humility, grace, and commitment to nurturing the next generation through initiatives like:

• Ojaja University in Kwara State, with a campus soon in Ile-Ife
• Ojaja Malls in Ife, Akure, Osogbo, and Lagos
• Ife Grand Resort, creating jobs and opportunities for youths
• Numerous empowerment programs for women, youths, and widows

The Elerinmo highlighted the Ooni’s contributions to elevating Yoruba culture, particularly through transforming the Olojo Festival into a globally recognized tourism event, attracting visitors worldwide.

Social and Economic Empowerment

Oba Arowotawaya II emphasized that the Ooni has consistently worked to empower youths, women, and disadvantaged groups, fostering social inclusion, economic opportunity, and dignity. Initiatives channeled through the House of Oduduwa Foundation have supported artisans, entrepreneurs, and vulnerable communities.

Unity and Cultural Diplomacy

The Ooni’s reign has been marked by efforts to unify Yoruba sub-groups and bridge ethnic and religious divides in Nigeria. Notably, he resolved a decades-old discord with the Alaafin of Oyo shortly after his coronation, exemplifying his role as a peacemaker and bridge-builder.

Through cultural diplomacy, the Ooni has strengthened ties with the African diaspora, especially in the Americas and the Caribbean, reinforcing ancestral and spiritual connections while promoting Yoruba heritage globally.

A Decade of Transformation

The Elerinmo concluded:

“Your Majesty’s reign has brought unity to Yoruba land and positioned our cultural heritage on the global stage. We pray for God’s continued blessings upon His Majesty. May your reign be long, peaceful, and prosperous.”

Under Oba Ogunwusi’s leadership, Ile-Ife has been reimagined as a world-class tourism zone, blending tradition with modern development, and demonstrating that traditional leadership can catalyze economic, social, and cultural growth.