In his ascension as the 51st Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty, Ooni Adeyeye Ogunwusi Ojaja II made a covenant with his forebearers and his subjects to make sure the ancient Yoruba kingdom regain its lost glory as regards tourist attraction, preservations of culture and tradition, rejuvenation of festivals, bridging the gap between the traditional institutions and the people.
In less than seven years on the throne as the Arole Oduduwa, Ooni Adeyeye has harnessed and galvanized all available means to ensure he keeps to his promise. The once sleepy town has witnessed a boost in several activities. The city now hosts thousands of tourists who troop in to visit during the festivals that have been awakened by Ooni Adeyeye.
Apart from the festival reintegration which is gaining massive momentum, Ooni’s love for innovation, youth empowerment, entrepreneurship, and as well throwing his palace doors wide open has enabled him to succeed. As of today, his Royal African Youth Award has inducted hundreds of youths from all spheres of life who are certified potential world leaders and global change-makers. His benevolence has attracted world recognition most especially his kind gestures to victims of human trafficking he adopted and established them with new life.
Weeks ago, at the Ife-grand resort, during the Aayanagalu Festival, which accommodated drummers from all over Nigeria under one roof, many witnessed the uncommon dexterity of his majesty. To some, Kabiyesi is an accomplished real estate developer, and business investor with years of experience but not many know him as a drummer boy who loves to play the traditional talking drums. During the festival, Ooni stole the show when he took centre stage amidst rousing adulation when he picked the Iya-Ilu to display his drumming abilities.
