President John Dramani Mahama has been formally 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 prestigious Yoruba chieftaincy title, which translates as “a president who reorganises the global space for humanity,” honours President Mahama’s leadership and his longstanding advocacy for global cooperation, equity, and sustainable development.
Ahead of the installation, the Ooni’s palace hosted a series of cultural activities marked by traditional rites, elaborate decorations, and vibrant performances, drawing chiefs, dignitaries, and members of the Yoruba community to witness the historic event.
President Mahama is widely recognised for his commitment to multilateralism and inclusive global governance. Through international platforms, including the United Nations, he has consistently called for collective action on global challenges such as climate change and economic inequality, while advocating stronger representation for developing countries in global decision-making processes.
The honour adds to President Mahama’s earlier 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 recognition of his contributions to leadership and diplomacy.
The installation is expected to further deepen cultural and diplomatic relations between Ghana and Nigeria, underscoring the enduring historical and cultural ties shared by both nations.
The Ooni of Ife, one of the most revered traditional rulers in Yorubaland, continues to champion Yoruba heritage, interfaith harmony, and socio-economic development across Nigeria and the wider African diaspora.
