The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi Ojaja II, is poised to celebrate his 10th coronation anniversary with an international cultural festival. This landmark event was announced by the Ooni’s representative, Queen Aderonke Ademiluyi-Ogunwusi, during a press conference held at the Ooni’s Palace in Ile-Ife on Wednesday.
Themed “10 Years of Aṣé: A Reign of Peace, Culture and Unity,” the anniversary celebration is scheduled to take place from November 30 to December 7. This occasion will honor the traditional ruler’s decade-long commitment to leadership and cultural preservation in Ile-Ife.
The festival will feature a diverse array of activities designed to promote Yoruba heritage, foster Pan-African solidarity, and encourage socio-economic development. The Ooni described the affair as a global gathering dedicated to celebrating Yoruba civilization while enhancing Africa’s cultural identity.
The festivities are expected to draw royalty, political figures, academics, cultural icons, and tourists, transforming Ile-Ife into a focal point for African heritage and global unity. The Ooni highlighted that his reign has emphasized peace-building, cultural conservation, economic empowerment, and the establishment of various initiatives.
Among the highlights of the program, Mrs. Bonike Thomas-Ojo, Chief of Staff at Slowe Ganzi International, mentioned the premiere of a cultural film, “The Journey to Ife: A Renewal of Culture Film,” alongside a Yoruba Drama, Arts, and Film Festival. Additional events will include a Yoruba food festival, fashion shows blending traditional and contemporary styles, traditional sports and games, a royal gala night, and a fireworks and drone display narrating the history of the Yoruba nation.
Mr. Moses Olafare, Director of Media and Public Affairs at the Ooni’s Palace, emphasized that this anniversary is not merely a celebration for Nigerians but a global gathering representing the African spirit, particularly from nations such as Brazil, Uganda, Ghana, and Cuba. He noted that a mystical procession featuring all 401 Ifa deities will provide a spiritual climax to the historic festival, which will be graced by world leaders, prominent traditional rulers, and scholars.
Oba Ogunwusi was officially inaugurated and presented with the staff of office on December 7, 2015, after his selection by Ife kingmakers in late October 2015, followed by the completion of coronation rites throughout November prior to the public inauguration ceremony.
