In a historic and culturally rich ceremony on Monday, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, conferred the prestigious chieftaincy title of Aare Atayeto Oodua of the Source on Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama, a gesture celebrated as a reaffirmation of African unity and shared heritage.
The event took place at Afewonro Park within the Ooni’s Palace in Ile-Ife, attracting a wide array of dignitaries, including traditional rulers, political leaders, and cultural figures from both Nigeria and Ghana. The ceremony underscored the spiritual and historical importance of Ile-Ife, regarded as the ancestral home of the Yoruba people, and a symbolic centre of West African culture.
Receiving President Mahama with full honours and tight security, Oba Ogunwusi described the Ghanaian leader as a beacon of cultural continuity, economic reform, and Pan-African solidarity.
“This palace is familiar to you. You have been part of our journey and have grown with us,” the Ooni said, highlighting Mahama’s long-standing connection with Ile-Ife even before his return to the presidency of Ghana.
Oba Ogunwusi used the occasion to stress that colonial-era boundaries should not diminish Africa’s shared history and cultural connections. Drawing parallels between the Yoruba and Ghanaian people, he said:
“In Ghana, you say ‘Akwaabo,’ and here we say ‘Ekaabo.’ Are they not the same? We are one people, one family.”
The Ooni also referenced a prophetic declaration made during Mahama’s previous visit to Ile-Ife, noting that prayers offered at that time predicted his return to leadership in Ghana—a prophecy that has now been fulfilled.
“To the glory of God, you are now a true reformer. Upon assuming office for a second term, Ghana’s economy witnessed a remarkable turnaround. We are immensely proud of your leadership,” he added, commending Mahama’s economic achievements and his potential influence in shaping policy across the African continent.
In his acceptance address, President Mahama expressed profound gratitude to the Ooni and the people of Ile-Ife, emphasizing the deep ancestral links between Ghana and Nigeria.
“The people of Accra trace their lineage to Ile-Ife. We are one family,” he said, dedicating the chieftaincy honour to all Ghanaians.
Mahama also promised to use his new role to strengthen bilateral relations and promote peace and reconciliation within West Africa. “As long as I serve as President of Ghana, I will work to deepen ties between our nations and bridge divides within ECOWAS,” he assured the gathering.
The Ghanaian president’s remarks resonated with the audience, highlighting shared cultural roots, historical connections, and the potential for greater collaboration between West African nations.
The conferment of the chieftaincy title on Mahama carries both symbolic and diplomatic significance. Historically, traditional Yoruba rulers have played pivotal roles in bridging communities, fostering unity, and recognising contributions to society beyond national borders. By honouring a sitting foreign president, the Ooni of Ife reinforced the importance of cultural diplomacy as a tool for regional integration.
According to scholars of African history, Ile-Ife is widely regarded as the cradle of Yoruba civilization and a spiritual centre for many communities across West Africa. The city has historically been a meeting point for cultural exchanges, and hosting such a high-profile international guest further cements its position as a hub of Pan-African heritage.
Oba Ogunwusi highlighted Mahama’s economic reforms in Ghana as exemplary and encouraged similar visionary leadership across the continent. Ghana has witnessed significant infrastructural development, agricultural reforms, and initiatives to strengthen governance under Mahama’s current tenure. By recognising these efforts, the Ooni affirmed the importance of exemplary leadership in promoting sustainable development in Africa.
The chieftaincy title, Aare Atayeto Oodua, is among the most prestigious in Yoruba culture, symbolizing courage, wisdom, and leadership. The title is traditionally conferred on individuals who have made notable contributions to society or demonstrated exemplary leadership qualities. By bestowing it on a foreign leader, the Ooni highlighted the shared values of leadership, integrity, and service across African nations.
The installation ceremony attracted several prominent figures, including Yoruba chiefs, state officials, cultural leaders, and Ghanaian diplomats. Their presence reinforced the event’s importance as a cultural and diplomatic milestone, demonstrating that African nations can honour each other’s leaders while reinforcing shared history and collective identity.
Security arrangements were tight, reflecting the high-profile nature of the event. The Ooni’s palace was heavily guarded, and movement within Afewonro Park was closely monitored to ensure the safety of all participants.
President Mahama’s acceptance of the chieftaincy title is expected to enhance Nigeria-Ghana relations, both politically and culturally. Analysts predict that the honour could pave the way for increased collaboration in trade, education, and cultural exchange programs, as well as joint initiatives within ECOWAS to promote regional stability.
The event also highlights a broader trend in West Africa: leveraging traditional institutions and cultural diplomacy to strengthen political ties and foster unity. By involving traditional rulers in high-level engagements, countries like Nigeria and Ghana can build bridges that complement formal diplomatic channels.
Throughout the ceremony, Oba Ogunwusi highlighted that African unity is rooted in shared ancestry, culture, and values. By recognising President Mahama, the Ooni sent a powerful message that borders imposed during the colonial era cannot divide African peoples.
The Yoruba monarch also called on other African leaders to draw inspiration from Mahama’s leadership and the symbolic act of this honour. “Our unity is our strength. As Africans, we must remember that despite colonial history and borders, we remain one people, one family,” he declared.