President John Dramani Mahama has been ceremonially installed as Aare Atayeto Oodua of the Source by the Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty Oba Adeyeye Enitan Babatunde Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, at a vibrant traditional ceremony held in Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria.
The prestigious Yoruba title, which translates as “a President who reorders the global space for the benefit of humanity,” was conferred in recognition of President Mahama’s leadership legacy and his sustained commitment to global cooperation, equity, and sustainable development.
With this honour, President Mahama joins a distinguished group of leaders acknowledged for their influence and contributions beyond their national borders.
The installation followed several days of traditional rites and preparations at the Ooni’s palace. The palace grounds were adorned with elaborate cultural decorations as traditional rulers, dignitaries, and members of the Yoruba community gathered to witness what many described as a historic and symbolic occasion.
This recognition further adds to President Mahama’s list of traditional honours within the Yoruba cultural space. In October 2015, he was honoured by the Offa Kingdom in Kwara State with the title Aare Atolase of Offa, in appreciation of his efforts in leadership, peace-building, and diplomacy across Africa.
Commentators note that the latest honour is likely to strengthen cultural and diplomatic ties between Ghana and Nigeria, underscoring the long-standing historical and cultural bonds between the two nations.
The Ooni of Ife, regarded as one of the most influential traditional rulers among the Yoruba people, continues to play a significant role in promoting cultural heritage, interfaith harmony, and socio-economic development in Nigeria and across the African diaspora.
