President John Dramani Mahama has been formally installed as Aare Atayeto Oodua of the Source by the Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty Oba Adeyeye Enitan Babatunde Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, during a colourful traditional ceremony held in Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria.
The highly revered Yoruba title, interpreted as ‘a President who reorders the global space for the good of humanity,’ was conferred in recognition of President Mahama’s leadership credentials and sustained advocacy for global cooperation, fairness, and sustainable development.
The honour places President Mahama among a select group of leaders acknowledged for their influence and impact beyond national borders.
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The installation ceremony followed several days of traditional preparations at the Ooni’s palace, involving customary rites and cultural observances. The palace grounds were adorned with rich traditional décor as chiefs, dignitaries, and members of the Yoruba community gathered to witness what many described as a historic and symbolic occasion.
Aare Atolase of Offa
This latest recognition adds to President Mahama’s growing list of traditional honours within the Yoruba cultural sphere. In October 2015, he was conferred with the title Aare Atolase of Offa by the Offa Kingdom in Kwara State, in recognition of his contributions to leadership, peace, and diplomacy on the African continent.
Observers say the conferment of the Aare Atayeto Oodua title is expected to further strengthen cultural and diplomatic relations between Ghana and Nigeria, underscoring the enduring historical and cultural ties between the two West African nations.
The Ooni of Ife, one of the most revered traditional authorities among the Yoruba people, continues to play a significant role in promoting cultural heritage, interfaith harmony, and socio-economic development across Nigeria and the African diaspora.