The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has been appointed as the Grand Patron of a Yoruba elders’ council, ”Egbe Olodo Ide Igbimo Agbagba Ile Yoruba”.
This is contained in a statement signed by the Director of Media and Public Affairs, Ooni’s Palace, Mr Moses Olafare, in Ile-Ife, Osun.
Olafare also said that one of the Ooni’s queens, Olori Ashley, was installed as the Iyalode of the same organisation.
He said that the appointment was in recognition of the Ooni’s continuous commitment to the promotion and preservation of Yoruba culture and heritage.
He added that the installation of Queens Ashley as the Iyalode of the organisation, was in recognition of her strong cultural advocacy.
The director said that the Ooni and Olori were handed with the certificates by members of the organisation.
The Coordinator of the organisation, Mr Olajide Kamilu, said that the group was established to promote Yoruba culture, language, and traditions to a global audience, as well as to reinforce cultural identity among younger generations.
Kamilu commended the Ooni for his consistent leadership in cultural revival and heritage promotion, noting that his reign has significantly elevated global awareness of Yoruba traditions.
He also expressed concern over the gradual decline in cultural values among younger generations, lamenting that many parents no longer prioritise the teaching of Yoruba language and traditions to their children.
He stressed the urgent need for renewed cultural education, saying such efforts are necessary to prevent the erosion of Yoruba heritage and identity.
The group also appealed to Ooni for continued support and royal blessings to strengthen their mission of cultural promotion and advocacy.
In his response, Ooni commended the organisation for its initiative, describing it as timely and crucial to the preservation of Yoruba heritage.
He expressed appreciation for the honour bestowed on him and his Queen,assuring the group of his continuous support for any effort aimed at promoting Yoruba culture, tradition, and unity.
Oba Ogunwusi also offered royal blessings to the organisation, praying for its success and long-term impact in strengthening Yoruba cultural identity across generations.
