President John Dramani Mahama has been installed as the Aare Atayeto Oodua of the Source by the Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty Oba Adeyeye Enitan Babatunde Ogunwusi, Ojaja II. The ceremony took place in Ile Ife, Osun State, Nigeria.
The revered Yoruba chieftaincy title translates as “A President who reorganises the global space for humanity.” It was conferred in recognition of Mahama’s leadership qualities, his advocacy for global cooperation, equity, and sustainable development.
The installation followed several days of preparations at the palace of the Ooni of Ife. Cultural rites and traditional ceremonies were performed ahead of the event, drawing chiefs, dignitaries, and members of the Yoruba community to the palace grounds, which were adorned with traditional displays and decorations.
Mahama is widely known for his support for multilateralism and the pursuit of a fair global order. In recent international engagements, including his speeches at the United Nations, he has consistently called for collective action to address global challenges such as climate change and economic inequality. He has also advocated for a stronger voice for developing nations in global decision making.
The honour adds to Mahama’s existing traditional titles within the Yoruba cultural space. In October 2015, he was conferred with the title of Aare Atolase of Offa by the Offa Kingdom in Kwara State, in recognition of his contributions to leadership and diplomacy.
The installation is expected to strengthen cultural and diplomatic relations between Ghana and Nigeria, reflecting the long standing historical and cultural ties between both countries.
The Ooni of Ife, regarded as one of the most revered traditional rulers among the Yoruba people, continues to play a significant role in promoting Yoruba heritage, interfaith harmony, and socio economic development across Nigeria and the African diaspora.
