Royal anniversaries are measured in drums, processions, and how many people still believe in the crown. By December 4 in Ile Ife, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi will mark 10 years since taking his oath of office. Recently, the palace released an invitation that read like a royal itinerary: thanksgiving, chieftaincy titles, university launch, grand finale.
Ogunwusi became Ooni in 2015, selected from the Giesi ruling house. As the 51st monarch of Ife, his duty stretched beyond ceremony. He positioned the throne as a modern force for culture, youth empowerment, and diplomacy. The crown faced forward instead of simply observing history.
Youth development became his loudest message. Factories, textile hubs, and agricultural projects emerged under his watch, creating employment for thousands. A cocowood factory turned local materials into an opportunity. Adire workshops gave women and young people skills that could take them around the world.
Culture remained his diplomatic language. He reached toward the African diaspora, especially in the Caribbean and the Americas, strengthening roots across oceans. Festivals were encouraged. Tradition found a stage and an audience.
He also stitched peace where rivalry once stood. Early in his reign, Ogunwusi met the Alaafin of Oyo to ease long-standing tensions. The gesture signalled unity. Yoruba leaders began to speak with less distance and more collaboration.
Education followed. Ojaja University took shape in Kwara State; its curriculum leaned toward entrepreneurship and problem-solving. Health care received its own response through the Equity Health Group, fighting medical tourism with local diagnostics.
His lineage stretches back to Oduduwa. His public life stretches across business, philanthropy, tourism, and real estate. Six marriages brought whispers, yet his reform projects drew louder conversations.
This December’s celebration spans four days across palace grounds and the newly built Ojaja Arena. 10 years on the throne can be counted by ceremonies. His decade seems easier to measure by the jobs that did not exist before he wore the crown.
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