The Permanent Chairman of the Southern Nigerian Traditional Rulers Council (SNTRC) and the Natural Head of the Oduduwa race globally, Arole Oodua Olofin Adimula, the Ooni of Ife, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja II, has celebrated his 52nd birthday, calling for continued peace, unity, and progress in Nigeria.
In a statement by the Senior Media Officer, Ooni’s Palace, Sodiq Lawal, on behalf of the Director of Media and Public Affairs, Ooni’s Palace, Otunba Moses Olafare, the Ooni, who clocked 52 on Saturday, October 17, 2026, reaffirmed his commitment to the promotion of Yoruba cultural heritage, fostering of the nation’s unity and support for initiatives geared toward the improvement of the welfare of Nigerians.
The Ooni, who is the Co-Chairman of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria (NCTRN), urged Nigerians, regardless of their ethnic, religious and political differences, to embrace peaceful coexistence, mutual understanding and collective responsibility as essential ingredients for national development, Lawal said.
He pointed out the necessity for the population to work together to develop a society where peace, justice, economic success and equal opportunity are priority.
His birthday, he said, was an occasion to reflect on the necessity of purposeful leadership, service to humanity and the preservation of cultural values.
“Peace and unity are central to my responsibility as the Ooni of Ife,” Ooni Ogunwusi added. I will continue to use my position and influence to build bridges among communities, encourage peaceful co-existence and appreciate the cultural diversity that makes Nigeria special.
“I believe that our diversity should be a source of strength, not conflict. I thus appeal to all Nigerians irrespective of their ethnic, religious and political affiliations to embrace mutual understanding, respect and cooperation in our joint quest for a united and thriving country.
“Throughout my reign, I have been committed to promoting Yoruba culture and tradition, projecting the historical significance of Ile-Ife as the ancestral home. I will continue to support efforts that conserve our legacy, enhance cultural diplomacy and foster understanding among people throughout Nigeria, Africa and the global community.
“Since I ascended the ancient throne of my forebears, I have continued to support initiatives that focus on cultural preservation, youth development, entrepreneurship, community development and humanitarian service. I am a strong supporter of the traditional institutions and their crucial role in promoting peace, encouraging growth and complementing the work of government and other stakeholders to better the lives of our people.
“As the Permanent Chairman of the Osun State Council of Obas and Co-Chairman of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria, I am dedicated to fostering dialogue, strengthening traditional institutions and promoting synergy among leaders for the benefit of our communities and the country at large.
I also understand the necessity of working with traditional rulers across Africa and the Yoruba diaspora to build our cultural bonds, promote our shared history and generate chances for meaningful partnerships that will benefit present and future generations.
As I celebrate my 52nd birthday I appeal on Nigerians, especially our youths, to remain hopeful and strive to build a country where peace, justice, economic prosperity and equitable opportunities abound for all. “I urge all leaders in all spheres to put the collective interest of the people above personal considerations and work together for a better Nigeria.”
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