Oba Elerinmo hails Ooni of Ife on birthday, extols his commitment to Yoruba heritage and youth development
His Royal Majesty, Oba Dr Michael Odunayo Ajayi, Arowotawaya II, the Elerinmo of Erinmo-Ijesa, has felicitated with the Arole Oodua, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, the Ooni of Ife, on the occasion of his birthday today October 17, 2026, describing him as a distinguished monarch, a custodian of Yoruba heritage, and a symbol of cultural pride.
Oba Ogunwusi who turns fifty two today, is the 51st Ooni of Ife after his predecessor, Ooni Okunade Sijuwade, making him the youngest monarch to occupy the Arole Oonirisa Palace in Ile-Ife.
In a congratulatory message, Oba Arowotawaya II, joined the royal institution, the Yoruba nation, the people of Ile-Ife, and well-wishers across the world in celebrating the revered monarch for his contributions to cultural preservation, youth development, entrepreneurship, peacebuilding, and national unity.
The Elerinmo commended the Ooni for his visionary leadership and commitment to preserving the rich traditions of the Yoruba people while promoting initiatives that connect the younger generation with their cultural heritage and inspire them to contribute meaningfully to society.
He noted that the Ooni’s influence extends beyond the boundaries of his ancient throne, describing his reign as a bridge between the glorious history of the Yoruba race and its aspirations for a prosperous future.
Oba Ajayi also praised the monarch’s interest in youth empowerment, noting that his encouragement of young people demonstrates the importance of investing in their creativity, leadership potential, and capacity to drive positive change.
According to the Elerinmo, true royalty is reflected not only in the splendour of the crown but also in the lives touched, the hope inspired, and the enduring legacy created through exemplary leadership.
The monarch prayed for God’s continued protection, sound health, wisdom, and long life for the Ooni, expressing hope that his reign would witness greater peace, prosperity, cultural renaissance, and development in Ile-Ife and across the Yoruba nation.
“As he marks his special day today, I pray that Ooni Ogunwusi’s reign would remain a source of unity and inspiration. I also pray that his legacy would be remembered for strengthening cultural identity, empowering young people, and projecting Yoruba heritage to the international community,” Kabiyesi Elerinmo said.
Oba Arowotawaya II in his conclusion, wished the Ooni many more glorious years on the throne of his ancestors, declaring his continued support for the preservation and promotion of Yoruba culture and traditional institutions.
