The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, will mark the 10th anniversary of his coronation with an international festival scheduled to hold from November 30 to December 7 in Ile-Ife. Themed “A Reign of Peace, Culture and Unity,” the eight-day celebration is expected to attract world leaders, royalty, cultural icons, scholars, and tourists.
Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, Queen Aderonke Ademiluyi Ogunwusi said the monarch has redefined traditional leadership for the modern era as the spiritual leader of the Oodua race.
She described Ooni’s reign since 2015 as a beacon of peace, cultural preservation, and socio-economic advancement, restoring Ile-Ife as the cradle of Yoruba civilisation and the spiritual heart of Africa.
According to her, the Ooni has promoted cultural diplomacy and Pan-African unity, strengthening ties between Africa and its diaspora, particularly in the Americas and the Caribbean.
Beyond cultural influence, Queen Ogunwusi noted that the monarch has advanced economic empowerment through ventures such as the Inagbe Cocowood factory and the Ojajamore Shopping Mall, which have created over 3,000 jobs for indigenous youths.
She added that the anniversary festival will showcase Yoruba culture and foster global cultural exchange, affirming Africa’s enduring role in world history.
