The Ooni of Ife, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja II, has unveiled Nigeria’s first indigenous social media platform, 2GEDA.Net, declaring the beginning of a new era for youth innovation and digital entrepreneurship.
The event, which took place at Ilaji Resort, Ibadan, attracted traditional rulers, government officials, and security chiefs who described the development as a milestone for Nigeria’s technology space.
In his remarks, Ooni Ogunwusi said the project symbolizes unity in diversity and a rallying point for young Nigerians. “Olori, I greet you for being Emeka’s mother. Being an Ibo boy raised here in Ibadan truly means a lot to our diversity in Nigeria, because that unity is what we strive for,” the monarch said while commending the Chief Operating Officer of 2GEDA Network Nigeria Limited, Mr. Emeka Smith.
The Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Tajudeen Abimbola Ajibola, expressed gratitude for the Ooni’s foresight in leading such a groundbreaking initiative. “My prayer is that today’s launch reaches a global audience,” he declared.
Representing the Chief of Defence Staff, Air Vice Marshal O.G. Ogunsina, noted that the launch places Nigeria on par with global tech giants. “America has Facebook, China has WeChat, and now Nigeria has 2GEDA. Thanks to Ooni,” he said.
The Chief of Army Staff’s representative, Major General D.M. Ali, also encouraged the 2GEDA team to scale beyond existing platforms. “This development is welcome; it will further enhance our youth’s tech-entrepreneurial drive,” he stated.
On the security front, the EFCC Zonal Director in Ibadan, Mrs. Hauwa Garba Ringim, emphasized the app’s potential to curb cybercrime. “Our youth’s creativity is boundless; we appreciate the Ooni of Ife for investing in this laudable project,” she noted.
Hon. Remi Oseni, Federal House Member for Ido-Ibarapa Federal Constituency, pledged his support at the national level. “I pledge to champion 2GEDA at the National Assembly, liaise with government, and serve as its ambassador,” he affirmed.
Traditional rulers from across Yorubaland and beyond also endorsed the initiative. The Aseyin of Iseyin, Oba Adebola Ajibola, described the launch as a step into global competition. “I hope 2GEDA enhances freedom of speech, expression, and social interaction,” he remarked.
The Minister of Interior’s representative rounded off with words of encouragement. “2GEDA stands as a bridge we sincerely admire, kudos to the visionary behind it,” he said.
