The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has been honoured with the prestigious title “Emperor of Yoruba Kings in Africa and the Diaspora.”

This is contained in a statement by the Director of Media and Public Affairs, Ooni’s Palace, Moses Olafare, on Friday in Ile-Ife.

The statement said the title was conferred on the Ooni by Yoruba traditional rulers under the aegis of Apapo Oba Yoruba in Africa and the Diaspora (AOYAD) in the Republic of Benin.

The royal presentation of the title was received by Oba Ogunwusi at his palace in Ile-Ife.

The President of the association, Adehoumi Kiffouli, described the Ooni as a unifying symbol of the Yoruba people globally.

Mr Kiffouli, the traditional ruler of Illaso Kingdom in the Republic of Benin, noted that the recognition bestowed on the Ooni was in appreciation of his tireless efforts in promoting Yoruba culture, heritage, and unity among Yoruba descendants across Africa and the diaspora.

He added that the Ooni continued to demonstrate exemplary leadership and commitment toward strengthening the bonds among Yoruba traditional institutions beyond national boundaries.

Mr Kiffouli further stated that the title was meant to reaffirm the historic and spiritual position of the Ooni as the natural father and rallying point of the Yoruba race worldwide.

In response, Oba Ogunwusi expressed appreciation to the Benin Republic traditional rulers for the honour, describing it as a recognition not just for him but for the entire Yoruba race.

The Ooni said the recognition would further strengthen ongoing efforts aimed at fostering unity, cultural revival, and socio-economic collaboration among Yoruba people both in Africa and in the diaspora.

He reiterated the need for continued cooperation among traditional rulers across Yoruba-speaking communities and beyond, stressing that unity remains the greatest strength of the Yoruba race.

He offered prayers for peace, prosperity, and sustained cultural preservation among Yoruba communities worldwide, and assured the visiting royal father of his commitment to promoting harmony among traditional institutions across Africa.

(NAN)