President John Dramani Mahama has been 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 colourful ceremony held in Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria.
The highly revered Yoruba chieftaincy title, which translates as “a President who reorders the global space for the good of humanity,” was conferred in recognition of President Mahama’s leadership, statesmanship and advocacy for global cooperation, equity and sustainable development.
The honour places him among a select group of leaders recognised for their broader impact beyond national borders.
The installation followed days of traditional preparations and rites at the Ooni’s palace, culminating in a grand ceremony that drew chiefs, dignitaries and members of the Yoruba community from across Nigeria and beyond. The palace grounds were adorned with rich cultural displays, drumming and symbolism reflecting the deep heritage of the Yoruba people.
President Mahama is widely recognised for his strong commitment to multilateralism and the pursuit of a fairer global order. In several international engagements, including addresses at the United Nations, he has consistently called for collective global action on issues such as climate change, economic inequality and inclusive development, while advocating for a stronger voice for developing countries in global decision-making.
The latest honour adds to President Mahama’s existing traditional recognition within the Yoruba world. In October 2015, he was conferred with the title Aare Atolase of Offa by the Offa Kingdom in Kwara State, in acknowledgement of his leadership and diplomatic contributions.
The installation is expected to further deepen cultural and diplomatic ties between Ghana and Nigeria, reflecting the long-standing historical, cultural and people-to-people bonds shared by the two nations.
The Ooni of Ife, regarded as one of the most revered traditional rulers among the Yoruba, continues to play a prominent role in promoting Yoruba heritage, interfaith harmony and socio-economic development across Nigeria and the wider African diaspora.
By: Ekow Annan/newsalertgh.com
