Ooni of Ife at 52, Calls for Unity, Better Nigeria

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, has called on Nigerians to embrace peace, unity and mutual understanding as he celebrates his 52nd birthday.

The monarch, who turned 52 on Saturday, October 17, 2026, said Nigeria’s progress depends on the willingness of citizens to work together despite their ethnic, religious and political differences.

In a statement issued by Sodiq Lawal on behalf of the Director of Media and Public Affairs of the Ooni’s Palace, Otunba Moses Olafare, the traditional ruler reaffirmed his commitment to promoting Yoruba culture, strengthening national unity and supporting initiatives that improve the lives of Nigerians.

Ogunwusi, who is the Permanent Chairman of the Southern Nigerian Traditional Rulers Council and Co-Chairman of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria, described his birthday as an opportunity to reflect on leadership, service to humanity and the preservation of cultural heritage.

He urged Nigerians to see the country’s diversity as a strength rather than a source of division, stressing that peace and cooperation remain essential to national development.

“Peace and unity remain central to my responsibilities as the Ooni of Ife. I will continue to use my position and influence to strengthen relationships among communities, promote peaceful coexistence and celebrate the cultural diversity that makes Nigeria unique,” he said.

The monarch also highlighted his commitment to preserving Yoruba traditions and promoting the historical importance of Ile-Ife as the ancestral home of the Yoruba people.

He noted that traditional institutions have an important role to play in promoting peace, encouraging development and supporting government efforts to improve the welfare of citizens.

Beyond cultural preservation, Ogunwusi said he would continue to support initiatives focused on youth development, entrepreneurship, community development and humanitarian service.

As he marked the milestone, the Ooni urged young Nigerians to remain hopeful about the country’s future and challenged leaders across different sectors to put the interests of the people above personal considerations.

He said the goal should be to build a Nigeria where peace, justice, economic prosperity and equal opportunities are available to all.

The monarch’s birthday message centred on a call for collective responsibility, with an emphasis on the need for Nigerians and their leaders to work together towards a more united and prosperous country.