The city of Ile-Ife was abuzz with celebration as the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, marked his 50th birthday in grand style.
A host of political leaders, traditional rulers, and media personalities gathered to honor His Imperial Majesty in a series of vibrant events.
The festivities included the commissioning of the Ojaja Cinema at the Ojaja Arena by former Lagos State Governor and current Minister of Works, Babatunde Fashola, SAN. Governor Ademola Adeleke led a cake-cutting ceremony in tribute to the monarch, emphasising the significance of the occasion.
Prominent figures in attendance included former Vanguard Managing Director Gbenga Adefaye, media veteran Bisi Olatilo, and Chief Tunde Pinke of MicCom Golf, who hosted a gathering of industrial leaders at the Ojaja Grand Resort.
In his address at the palace, Fashola praised the Ooni as a beacon of pride for the Yoruba race.
“Within nine years of your ascension to the great Oduduwa throne, you have brought glory to our race. Your commitment to fostering unity among the descendants of Oduduwa globally is unparalleled. We are proud of you and grateful for your dedication to preserving Yoruba cultural heritage,” he said.
At the grand finale of the birthday celebrations, Governor Adeleke hailed Ooni Ogunwusi as a peace-loving monarch whose commitment to Nigeria’s development and the welfare of its youth is unmatched.
He noted that the Ooni’s vision of establishing a major film and talent discovery city in Ile-Ife, aiming to cultivate a beneficial relationship with educational institutions such as the Ojaja University in Kwara State.
“The entertainment industry holds immense potential for job creation and economic growth,”
“By leveraging our rich cultural narratives through cinema and music, we can enhance our global presence and boost Nigeria’s economy.” the Ooni remarked.
The celebration attracted a multitude of dignitaries, including Osun State Deputy Governor Kola Adewusi, Senator Olubuyi Fadeyi, and various members of the Osun House of Assembly. Traditional rulers such as the Osemawe of Ondo, Oba Adesimbo Victor, and the Elegushi of Lagos, Oba Saheed Ademola, were also in attendance, underscoring the Ooni’s significant role in the cultural and political landscape of Nigeria.
As the festivities continued, the Ooni’s golden jubilee not only celebrated his life but also the cultural richness and unity of the Yoruba people, setting the stage for future collaborations in the arts and entertainment sectors.
