By Otunba Moses Olafare
Great kingdoms do not emerge by accident. They are not the products of chance or mere ceremonial symbolism; they are built upon the bedrock of vision, conviction and deliberate leadership. Civilizations flourish when they are guided by minds that can see beyond the horizon of the present into the promise of the future. This fundamental truth defines the last ten years of the reign of Arole Oodua Olofin Adimula, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja II.
When he ascended the revered throne of Oduduwa on December 7, 2015, he did not come merely to occupy a seat of ancestral honour. He arrived with a mission that is a carefully articulated roadmap designed to reposition the ancient throne of Ile-Ife as a dynamic institution for cultural renaissance, economic emancipation, youth inclusion, global diplomacy and sustainable development. His ascension signalled the birth of a new era, one that would reawaken the consciousness of the Yoruba race and re-establish Ile-Ife as the spiritual and cultural headquarters and undoubted ancestral of Yoruba ethnic group, a dominant racial family of the larger Oduduwa race worldwide. He always says: “Let us always promote what binds us together, not what divides us”.
As the kingdom of Ile-Ife, the Nigerian nation and the global black race now celebrate a decade of this transformative reign, the footprints of his leadership stand boldly be felt across the landscapes of Yorubaland, Nigeria, Africa and the world. This milestone provides not only an opportunity to highlight what has been achieved but to understand the philosophical underpinnings that shaped these achievements.
1. The Philosophy of Inclusive Kingship
From the very beginning, Ooni Ogunwusi made it clear that his approach to traditional leadership would be revolutionary. He redefined modern kingship by building it upon a deeply spiritual yet contemporary ideology grounded in unity, youth empowerment and cultural diplomacy. His philosophy rests on three major pillars:
– Unity as a Divine Mandate
– Youth as Catalysts of Transformation
– Culture as a Vehicle for Global Relevance
a. Unity as a Divine Mandate
During his reign so far, Kabiyesi has consistently affirmed that unity is the soul of progress. Disunity, he argues, is the greatest threat to the growth of a people, especially in a time when ethnic tensions and political disagreements frequently disrupt national cohesion. His throne has therefore become a sanctuary for reconciliation and consensus-building. One of the earliest signs of this mandate was his diplomatic outreach to the then Alaafin of Oyo kingdom viewed by all and sundry as an unapologetic age-long enemy of the institution of the Ooni and several other Yoruba monarchs shortly after ascending the throne with a view to starting his leadership of the race on a clean bill without blemish. He even stretched his hands of friendship across the Niger creating more friends for the Yoruna tribe of the country under his fatherly headship as The Arole Oduduwa(The Representative of Oduduwa, the pioneer Ooni of Ile-Ife, the Cradle from where the people of the Yoruba, Ewe, GA, Itsekiri, Luo, Aku, Edo -Bini Lucumi and several other tribes across the world migrated to settle at their various settlements globally. “LET US ALWAYS PROMOTE WHAT BINDS US TOGETHER, NOT WHAT DIVIDES US”.
He spent his first 3 months of his reign visiting palaces across the Yorubaland within and beyond the South-West, promoting harmony and solidarity. For the first time in decades, the Yoruba traditional institution witnessed a renewed sense of kinship. This spirit of unity subsequently extended beyond the region, as the Ooni built bridges across ethnic divides in Nigeria encouraging cooperation between the North and the South, engaging leaders of minority ethnic groups and calling for peaceful coexistence during moments of national tension.
LET US ALWAYS PROMOTE WHAT BINDS US TOGETHER, NOT WHAT DIVIDES US”.
The throne of Oduduwa under his leadership evolved into a centre of national stability. Political leaders, civil society organisations and religious actors frequently seek his counsel during conflicts.
His message remains constant: “Nigeria’s greatness lies in its diversity and that diversity must be protected, not weaponized”.
b. Youth as Catalysts of Transformation
Ooni Ogunwusi had immediately upon ascending the throne of Oduduwa inaugurated youth driven Plans, Schemes and Programs such as IYES – Ife Youth Economic Empowerment and Ife Agropreneur Scheme, anchored by a young dynamic Olamide Awosunle. Perhaps the most defining feature of his philosophy is his unwavering commitment to youth empowerment and development. He has repeatedly emphasized that young people are not just the leaders of tomorrow, they are stakeholders of today. Their energy, creativity and innovation, he believes, are the engines that will drive the socio-economic rebirth of the nation.
This ideology is not just theoretical. It manifests in the numerous youth-focused programs, initiatives, institutions and interventions he has established. He deliberately surrounds himself with vibrant young minds, appoints youths into key traditional and administrative positions, supports youth-led start-ups, encourages digital innovation and uses his wide influence to create platforms that give young people visibility, mentorship and global opportunities.
Under his reign, thousands of young entrepreneurs across Nigeria have benefitted from grants, training, mentorship and business acceleration programs. Many who were struggling with unemployment now lead thriving businesses in agriculture, technology, creative arts, manufacturing and retail. Thanks to the Ooni’s direct intervention and strategic support. “YOUTHS ARE THE LEADERS OF TOMORROW FROM TODAY”
c. Culture as a Vehicle for Global Relevance
For Ooni Ogunwusi, culture is not a relic of the past. It is a living resource, a multiplier of identity, an engine for tourism, a tool for diplomacy and a pathway to sustainable economic development. His reign has transformed Yoruba culture from something often viewed merely as traditional into a globally relevant brand.
He strategically positions cultural assets as both heritage and enterprise. Through festivals, global cultural tours, academic partnerships, diplomatic missions and tourism development, he has elevated Yoruba cosmology and traditional institutions to international prominence.
The Ile-Ife narrative now resonates strongly across the Americas, Europe and the Caribbean, where millions of Afro-descendants see in the Ooni a symbol of their ancestral identity. WIFE OF THE PRESIDENT OF BRAZIL ALWAYS CALLS HIM “BABA MI”
By championing culture in this manner, Kabiyesi demonstrates that cultural capital when correctly harnessed can contribute immensely to national development.
2. Transformational Projects: When Vision Meets Delivery
The last decade has produced a long list of transformational initiatives under Kabiyesi’s direction. These projects cut across economic empowerment, cultural diplomacy, infrastructure, youth development, education and technological innovation. They reflect his belief that leadership must translate into measurable impact.
a. Economic Empowerment & Job Creation
One of his most influential contributions is the Ojaja Economic Revolution, a broad umbrella initiative aimed at stimulating economic productivity, job creation and empowerment across Nigeria.
Some key interventions include:
• Ojaja Farms
This agricultural transformation project spans multiple states and involves large-scale cassava, yam, rice and vegetable production.
Beyond farming, the initiative supports processing, packaging and distribution, thereby creating value-chain employment for thousands of rural dwellers.
• Ojaja More Marts
These retail hubs are designed to promote local manufacturing and encourage trade fairness. The marts empower small-scale producers by providing them with modern, structured markets that eliminate exploitative middlemen and ensure better profit margins. These outlets employ numerous young people while stimulating local commerce.
• Start-up Empowerment Programs
Kabiyesi has funded and supported start-ups in agro-tech, fintech, fashion, creative industries and renewable energy. Through training, seed capital and partnerships with financial institutions, young entrepreneurs gain opportunities that many could not previously access.
• Investments in Manufacturing and Green Energy
From assembling eco-friendly tricycles to supporting renewable energy projects, his investments promote a greener future for Nigeria. These industries not only created jobs but also align with global sustainability goals.
Through these interventions, Kabiyesi promotes the philosophy of indigenous wealth creation, a model in which communities build prosperity through productivity rather than dependency.
b. Cultural Revival & Global Diplomacy
Ooni Ogunwusi has revolutionized cultural diplomacy in Africa. Over the last 10 years, Ile-Ife emerged as a global cultural capital, drawing attention from scholars, political leaders, Afro-descendant groups, creative industry stakeholders and spiritual communities worldwide.
His major accomplishments in this sphere include:
• Hosting Annual International Festivals
Events such as the Olojo Festival now attract visitors from across the world, boosting cultural tourism and stimulating the local economy. His reign has given these festivals renewed structure, documentation and global visibility.
• Reconnecting Afro-descendant Communities
Kabiyesi has travelled extensively throughout Africa, Brazil, the Caribbean, North America and Europe in person and by proxy to reconnect with Afro-descendant communities. Through these engagements, he positions the Yoruba culture as a unifying identity for millions seeking reconnection with their roots.
• Repatriation Advocacy
Ooni is at the forefront of conversations on retrieving looted Yoruba artefacts from Western museums. His campaigns have sparked global debates on colonial injustice, restitution and cultural preservation. “IT CAN CAUSE ANOTHER WORLD WAR” was the response from the Director of British Museum when Ooni Ogunwusi asked “WHEN WOULD ALL THESE OUR ARTEFACTS BE RETURNED TO US IN AFRICA” in 2016 during his historic visit to the museum.
• Pan-African Leadership
He has addressed international bodies, participated in high-level diplomatic engagements and represented the Yoruba race at global summits. His message consistently promotes African unity, economic cooperation and cultural pride.
Through these efforts, he has expanded the influence of the throne beyond Nigeria, ensuring that Yoruba culture occupies its rightful place on the global map. The King Otumfor Osei Tutu II of Kumasi, didn’t hesitate to call him as the “NEW FACE OF PAN-AFRICANNISM” that must be supported by all of the monarchs in Africa during his visit to his palace in the year 2016.
c. Infrastructure and Heritage Renewal in Ile-Ife
Under his leadership, Ile-Ife has experienced significant transformation in both infrastructure and heritage preservation.
Key interventions include:
• Palace Holistic Renovation and Expansion
The Ile Oodua Palace in Ile-Ife has undergone massive upgrades like architectural modernization, beautification, expansion and preservation of ancient courtyards. The palace now stands as a blend of tradition and modernity, symbolizing the dynamic evolution of Yoruba royalty.
• Restoration of Ancient Sites
Working with historians, archaeologists and government agencies, Kabiyesi revived several cultural and heritage monuments. These restorations preserve the historical identity of Ile-Ife and serve as tourism assets.
• State-backed Infrastructure Development
Through his influence, Ile-Ife has attracted major infrastructure developments such as roads, community amenities, flyover and tourism support facilities.
His engagements with government officials often translate into improved public services for residents.
• Museums and Cultural Centres
The establishment and revitalization of museums and cultural institutions in Ile-Ife elevate the town’s status as a global centre of culture, research and tourism.
These interventions collectively reawaken the splendour of the cradle of civilization.
3. Education, Innovation & Scholarship
Ooni Ogunwusi’s leadership recognizes that knowledge is the strongest weapon for shaping future generations. His decade-long reign has therefore invested heavily in education, skill development and innovation.
Key accomplishments include:
• Scholarships and Educational Support
Thousands of students from primary to tertiary levels have benefited from scholarships, tuition support, educational materials and mentorship programs sponsored by the Ooni.
• Establishment of Ojaja University, Eyenkorin
This groundbreaking institution is envisioned as a centre for science, technology, leadership and innovation. Its mission aligns with Kabiyesi’s broader vision to empower Nigerian youths with world-class education that prepares them for global competitiveness.
• International Academic Partnerships
He has facilitated cross-continental partnerships with institutions in America, Europe and Asia for cultural research, academic exchange, technology transfer and skill development.
• STEM and Creative Arts Sponsorship
Ooni has sponsored robotics competitions, coding bootcamps, creative arts festivals and vocational training programs. These platforms expose young people to cutting-edge knowledge and equip them with skills relevant to the modern economy.
His educational investments demonstrate a monarch who nurtures minds as much as he builds monuments.
4. Humanitarianism & Community Welfare
Ooni Ogunwusi embodies compassionate leadership. His humanitarian initiatives have reached thousands of citizens across Nigeria.
His key humanitarian contributions include:
• Women Empowerment
Kabiyesi has launched multiple empowerment schemes targeting market women, artisans, widows and rural entrepreneurs.
These programs provide grants, tools, training and long-term support structures.
• Health Interventions
Through medical outreach missions, free healthcare services, maternal care programs and partnerships with health NGOs, particularly OAUTHC, countless individuals have received vital medical attention.
• Food and Relief Distribution
During economic hardships and the COVID-19 pandemic, Kabiyesi provided food packs, palliatives and relief materials for vulnerable groups ensuring no community under his influence was left behind.
• Advocacy Campaigns
He actively champions campaigns against domestic violence, child abuse, human trafficking and other social issues. His voice lends strength to national discourses on justice, peace and family welfare.
Through these interventions, Kabiyesi proves that leadership is fundamentally an act of service.
5. Diplomatic Influence & National Development
Over the past decade, Ooni Ogunwusi has emerged as one of Nigeria’s strongest moral voices and cultural ambassadors on the global stage.
His diplomatic influence includes:
• Bridging Governance and Traditional Institutions
He serves as a mediator between government agencies and traditional structures. His engagements often provide clarity, peace and stability during political tensions.
• National Peace building
During elections, national disagreements and periods of crisis, the Ooni consistently calls for peaceful dialogue, unity and coexistence.
• International Diplomacy
Kabiyesi has embarked on diplomatic tours across continents, meeting world leaders, negotiating cultural and economic partnerships and promoting Nigeria’s positive image globally;
– He spoke at the White House in the USA during the
Afro Caribbean Summit organised by former
President Barrak Obama in the year 2016
– He was invited to address the Parliament of
Pensive is State at the state capital city of
Harrisburg where he spoke on “AFRICA MUST
UNITE”
– He was hosted by the Buckingham Palace Royal
Family at a dinner organised for him by Prince
Charles and his brother Prince Andrew alongside
spouses in the year 2016
– He was the only African leader invited by
President LULA of Brazil as the Special Guest of
Honour during the Unveiling of “The Annual ISESE
Day Ceremony” held at the banquet hall of the
office of the president in Brasilia, Brazil in 2023.
Even though, these travels, strengthen bilateral relationships between those countries and Nigeria, and opens doors for investment and cultural exchange. Ooni Ogunwusi has so far singlehandedly funded his many international trips alone.
• African Unity Advocacy
His message of continental unity resonates strongly among African leaders. He has participated in Pan-African conferences, diaspora summits and cultural congresses, consistently advocating for a united and prosperous Africa driven by cultural identity and economic cooperation.
– He was hosted on a presidential invitation by
President John Mahama of Ghana in 2016.Though
President Mahama lost his reelection bid in the
year after, Ooni Ogunwusi was among the African
leaders invited to grace the inauguration of the
same President John Mahama as the current
President of Ghana early this year 2025.
-He was hosted to at the State House in Nairobi
By President Williams Ruto of Kenya in 2022
Where both African leader discuss his “Africa Must
Unite For Africa” agenda.
– The Year 2023 was the turn of the president of
Uganda, Yoweri Museveni fondly called “father of
East Africa” who had also invited Ooni Ogunwusi
to the 50th Wedding Anniversary of him and his
wife and to extensively discuss the Ooni’s Africa
Must Unite For Africa” agenda in Kampala,
Uganda.
Also, his Ile OODUA palace in Ile-Ife has equally hosted several foreign personalities such as
Ambassadors of various countries working in
Nigeria, to discuss diplomatic matters with Nigeria
and his “Africa Must Unite For Africa” agenda. These great foreign figures include but not limited to the High Commissioners of the United Kingdom, American Ambassadors, High commissioners and Ambassadors from France, Germany, Australia, Gambia to mention but a few. President John Mahama of Ghana, Mayor of Banjul, Gambia, Mayor of Porto Novo, Benni Republic and Mayor of the city of Brampton in Canada were among international guests who had been hosted by Ooni Ogunwusi at his Ile Oodua palace at Ile-Ife believed to the traditional headquarters of the Oduduwa race worldwide.
Kabiyesi’s global engagements position the throne of Oduduwa as an influential institution in world diplomacy.
6. A Decade of Impact: A Legacy in Motion
The first ten years of Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi’s reign are not just marked by projects; they are enshrined in legacy footprints. His blueprint is visionary, his execution strategic and his outcomes transformative.
He has demonstrated that a traditional throne, when guided by wisdom, innovation and purposeful leadership, can become a catalyst for development. He has redefined modern kingship as an institution capable of shaping economies, inspiring young people, strengthening cultural identity, healing divisions and promoting global influence.
Through his actions, he proves that leadership is not a ceremonial title but a sacred responsibility to build, to unite, to empower, to elevate and to leave behind footprints worthy of history.
As the House of Oduduwa marks this remarkable milestone, one truth stands unshaken: Arole Oodua Olofin Adimula Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi , CFR, Ojaja II, The Ooni of Ife has not only protected the legacy of his ancestors, he has expanded it. He has not only led a kingdom, he has shaped a civilization.
This milestone he has perfectly recorded in barely ten years of his reign not just because he is;The Natural Head of a race, or because he is the President of of the South West Traditional Rulers Council or because he was officially inaugurated by Nigeria’s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2024 at Owerri in Imo state of Nigeria as Permanent Chairman of The Southern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council(SNTRC) and not only because he has so far remained the Co-chairman, National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria (NCTRN) but more importantly because of the fact that he has refused to be distracted by the nugatory supremacy of the Yoruba Oba which he naturally has, and he has refused to be carried away by the exalted position he has found himself but he has rather focused on the impact to make with the exalted position of the Natural Head of Oduduwa Royalty for the race, the country and for the continent of Africa.
The next decade promises to be even more profound, for if the first ten years are a blueprint, the future will surely be a masterpiece his leadership has impacted.
Otunba Moses Olafare is the Director of Media & Public Affairs, Ooni’s Palace, Ile-Ife.