Ooni of Ile-Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, on Sunday conferred the honorary title of Yeye Asiwaju Gbogbo Ile Oodua on Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu.
The installation ceremony, held at Afewonro Park in Enuwa Square within the Ooni’s Palace, marked the grand finale of events commemorating the monarch’s 10th coronation anniversary.
Traditional rites were performed by palace chiefs in line with established Yoruba customs.
In his remarks, the Ooni praised Senator Tinubu for her steadfast support over the years, recalling her role during the period leading up to his ascension to the throne.
“She is the mother of the nation. Ten years ago, on December 7, 2015, she stood by me through thick and thin,” Ooni Ogunwusi said.
He also acknowledged former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who had accompanied him to several ancestral locations during that period.
“Today is not for long speeches, but I must thank President Bola Tinubu and everyone who has continued to stand by our mother. She truly embodies mercy.”
In her speech, Senator Oluremi Tinubu described the title as a divine privilege and expressed gratitude for the honour.
She commended the Ooni’s leadership, saying his reign has brought renewed global recognition and pride to the Yoruba people.
She also thanked the people of Ile-Ife for supporting the monarch throughout his decade on the throne.
“The joy of the nation has come. God has assured us that 2026 will be a year of joy, honour, and restoration, a year where everyone will share in renewed glory,” she said.
Former President Obasanjo, who also spoke at the event, applauded the Ooni for selecting the First Lady for the revered chieftaincy title.
He encouraged Senator Tinubu to continue her humanitarian initiatives, noting that traditional honours are reserved for individuals of integrity and service.
“You have come to where you belong. Continue your good works wherever you go,” Obasanjo added.
He also reflected on witnessing both the beginning of Ooni Ogunwusi’s reign and the celebration of his 10th anniversary.
The ceremony drew a large gathering of traditional rulers, political leaders, and dignitaries, including the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar; Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III; former First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan; and the Soun of Ogbomosho, Oba Ghandi Afolabi.
Also in attendance were the governors of Osun, Lagos, and Ogun states, Senators Ademola Adeleke and Ibikunle Amosun (former), Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and Prince Dapo Abiodun, as well as Lagos Assembly Speaker, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, former House of Representatives Speaker, Rt. Hon. Dimeji Bankole; and Osun Deputy Governor, Prince Kola Adewusi, among others.
