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, in recognition of her dedication to Yoruba culture and her status as a woman of substance.
The ceremony took place at Afewonro Park, Enuwa Square, within the Ooni’s Palace in Ile-Ife, as part of the grand finale marking the 10th Coronation Anniversary of Oba Ogunwusi. The monarch praised Senator Tinubu 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 culture,” Oba Ogunwusi said, noting that the honour was conferred with the endorsement of traditional rulers across Yorubaland.
The Ooni also thanked former President Olusegun Obasanjo for his support during the early days of his reign and commended Senator Tinubu for accompanying him to several ancestral sites during significant moments in his life.
In her remarks, Senator Oluremi Tinubu described the recognition as both humbling and divine. She lauded the Ooni for his visionary leadership, which has enhanced global recognition of the Yoruba race and strengthened pride in 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 honour, restoration, and renewed glory for all,” she said.
Former President Obasanjo also lauded the First Lady, urging her to continue her humanitarian efforts and praising the Ooni for deeming her worthy of the title.
Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, hailed Senator Tinubu as a key contributor to national development, highlighting her involvement in numerous impactful initiatives. He also commended the Ooni for a decade of transformative leadership, emphasizing his efforts in promoting Yoruba culture, fostering unity, and advancing socio-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 elevated Ile-Ife’s profile globally,” Governor Adeleke said, noting the Ooni’s contributions to job creation, youth empowerment, and sustainable community development.
The event was attended by prominent 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, all of whom joined in celebrating the Ooni’s 10-year reign and the First Lady’s honour.
