Preparations are in full swing in Osun State, Nigeria, as the traditional ruler of Ile-Ife, the Ooni of Ife, His Majesty Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, prepares to bestow one of the most prestigious Yoruba chieftaincy titles, “Aare Atayeto Oodua of the Source” on President Mahama on Monday, December 15, 2025.
The title loosely translates as “A President who reorganizes the global space for humanity.”
President John Mahama has long been a champion of multilateralism and the pursuit of a fair global order, consistently pushing for equity, cooperation, and sustainable development on the world stage.
In his recent address to the United Nations, which reverberated across the continent and the world, he stressed the need for nations to work together to tackle global challenges, from climate change to economic inequality, whilst ensuring that developing countries have a stronger voice in shaping international policies.
On the afternoon of Sunday, December 14, the palace grounds of the traditional ruler buzzed with activity, canopies were being erected, decorations put in place, and portraits of President Mahama prominently displayed, as the local community eagerly anticipated President Mahama’s visit.
President Mahama, who already holds the esteemed title of Aare Atolase of Offa, has long enjoyed warm ties with Yoruba communities.
In October 2015, the Offa Kingdom in Kwara State conferred the honourary title on him at the palace of the Olofa of Offa. HRM Oba Mufutau Gbadamosi Esuwoye I described the honour as recognising a leader “who ensures the nobility of this Kingdom is maintained.”
The latest installation as Aare Atayeto Oodua is expected to strengthen the strong cultural and diplomatic bonds between Nigeria and Ghana.
The Ooni of Ife is the traditional ruler of Ile-Ife, a historic town in Osun State, Nigeria, and is considered one of the most important Yoruba kings.
The current Ooni, His Imperial Majesty Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, ascended the throne in 2015. He is widely known for promoting Yoruba culture, interfaith dialogue, and socio-economic development, as well as strengthening ties with the African diaspora.
Ile-Ife itself is considered the ancestral and spiritual home of the Yoruba people, which gives the Ooni enormous cultural influence across Nigeria and the wider Yoruba world.
