The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, on Sunday conferred the chieftaincy title of ‘Yeye Asiwaju Gbogbo Ile-Oodua’ on Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, praising her as a woman of substance who is deeply connected to Yoruba culture and traditions. The title was bestowed during the grand finale of events marking the Ooni’s 10th Coronation Anniversary at Afewonro Park, Enuwa Square, within the Ooni’s Palace in Ile-Ife. Oba Ogunwusi commended the First Lady for her unwavering support over the years. “She is the mother of the nation. Ten years ago, on December 7, 2015, she stood by me through thick and thin. Today, we celebrate her as a merciful mother and a pillar of our community,” the monarch said, noting that the title was conferred in collaboration with traditional rulers across Yorubaland. The Ooni also acknowledged former President Olusegun Obasanjo for his assistance during his early reign and expressed appreciation for Senator Tinubu’s guidance and maternal care during critical moments. In her response, Senator Oluremi Tinubu expressed gratitude to God and described the honour as both humbling and divine. She lauded the Ooni for his visionary and progressive leadership, which has elevated the global recognition of the Yoruba race and brought renewed pride to the Ife Kingdom. “The joy of the nation has come, and we are just beginning to celebrate. God has assured us that 2026 will be a year of joy, honour, and restoration, a year in which everyone will partake in renewed glory,” she said. Former President Obasanjo also praised the First Lady, urging her to continue her humanitarian work while commending the Ooni for recognizing her contributions. Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, described Senator Tinubu as a pillar of national development and highlighted her role in supporting numerous impactful initiatives. He further praised the Ooni for his decade of transformative leadership, noting his efforts in promoting Yoruba culture, fostering unity, and driving community and economic development. “In 10 years, Kabiyesi has redefined leadership, using his exalted stool to promote peace, unity, and progress. His initiatives have strengthened the Yoruba race and raised the global profile of Ile-Ife,” Governor Adeleke said, noting the Ooni’s investments in job creation, youth empowerment, and sustainable community development. The ceremony was attended by dignitaries including the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar; the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III; former First Lady Patience Jonathan; and the Soun of Ogbomosho, Ọba Ghandi Afọlábí, who all joined in celebrating the Ooni’s 10 years of impactful reign.
