Preparations are underway in Osun State, Nigeria, as the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, prepares to confer a highly revered Yoruba chieftaincy title on President John Mahama.
The traditional ruler of Ile-Ife is set to bestow the title “Aare Atayeto Oodua of the Source” on President Mahama on Monday, December 15, 2025.
The title loosely translates as “a president who reorganises the global space for humanity.”
The honour recognises President Mahama’s long-standing advocacy for multilateralism and a fair global order.
He has consistently pushed for equity, cooperation and sustainable development on the international stage.
In a recent address to the United Nations, President Mahama called on nations to work together to confront shared global challenges, including climate change and economic inequality.
He also stressed the need for developing countries to have a stronger voice in shaping international policies.
On Sunday afternoon, the palace grounds in Ile-Ife were filled with activity as preparations intensified ahead of the ceremony.
Canopies were being mounted, decorations put in place and portraits of President Mahama prominently displayed, as the local community anticipated his arrival.
President Mahama already holds the Yoruba title of Aare Atolase of Offa, reflecting his long-standing ties with Yoruba communities. In October 2015, the Offa Kingdom in Kwara State conferred the title on him at the palace of the Olofa of Offa.
At the time, Oba Mufutau Gbadamosi Esuwoye I said the honour recognised a leader “who ensures the nobility of this Kingdom is maintained.”
The latest installation as Aare Atayeto Oodua of the Source is expected to strengthen further the cultural and diplomatic bonds between Ghana and Nigeria.
The Ooni of Ife is the traditional ruler of Ile-Ife, regarded as the ancestral and spiritual home of the Yoruba people. The position carries immense cultural influence across Nigeria and the wider Yoruba world.
The current Ooni, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, ascended the throne in 2015.
He is widely known for promoting Yoruba culture, interfaith dialogue, socio-economic development and stronger ties with the African diaspora.
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