Ooni Of Ife Marks 52nd Birthday, Calls For Peace And National Unity
The Ooni of Ife, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, has celebrated his 52nd birthday, calling on Nigerians to sustain peace, unity and progress across the country.
In a statement issued by the Director of Media and Public Affairs at the Ooni’s Palace, Otunba Moses Olafare, the monarch reaffirmed his commitment to promoting Yoruba cultural heritage, fostering national unity and supporting initiatives aimed at improving the welfare of Nigerians.
The Ooni urged Nigerians, irrespective of their ethnic, religious and political differences, to embrace peaceful coexistence, mutual understanding and collective responsibility as essential elements of national development.
He emphasised the need for citizens to work together towards building a country where peace, justice, economic prosperity and equal opportunities remain priorities.
The monarch described his birthday as an opportunity to reflect on the importance of purposeful leadership, service to humanity and the preservation of cultural values.
According to him, peace and unity remain central to his responsibilities as the Ooni of Ife, adding that he would continue to use his position and influence to strengthen relationships among communities, promote peaceful coexistence and celebrate Nigeria’s cultural diversity.
He said, “I believe that our diversity should be a source of strength rather than division. I therefore urge Nigerians, irrespective of their ethnic, religious and political differences, to embrace mutual understanding, respect and cooperation in the collective pursuit of a united and prosperous nation.”
The monarch also reiterated his commitment to promoting Yoruba culture and traditions while projecting the historical significance of Ile-Ife as the ancestral home of the Yoruba people.
He pledged to continue supporting initiatives that preserve cultural heritage, strengthen cultural diplomacy and promote understanding among people across Nigeria, Africa and the international community.
Reflecting on his reign, the Ooni noted that he had continued to support initiatives focused on cultural preservation, youth development, entrepreneurship, community development and humanitarian service.
He maintained that traditional institutions have important roles to play in fostering peace, inspiring development and complementing government efforts to improve the lives of citizens.
“In my capacity as the Permanent Chairman of the Osun State Council of Obas and Co-Chairman of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria, I remain committed to promoting dialogue, strengthening traditional institutions and encouraging collaboration among leaders for the benefit of our communities and the country at large,” he said.
On the international front, the monarch highlighted the importance of engaging with traditional rulers across Africa and members of the Yoruba diaspora to strengthen cultural connections, promote shared heritage and create opportunities for meaningful partnerships.
He added that such collaborations would help preserve cultural identity and create lasting benefits for present and future generations.
