Ile-Ife witnessed a momentous cultural event on Sunday, December 7, 2025, as Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, was formally installed as the Yeye Asiwaju Gbogbo Ile Oodua, a ceremonial chieftaincy title within the Yoruba ancestral kingdom.
The ceremony formed part of activities marking the 10th coronation anniversary of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Ojaja II.
The installation drew an impressive gathering of national leaders, traditional rulers and political heavyweights who converged on the ancient city to honour both the Ooni and the First Lady.
Among those in attendance were former President Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, former First Lady Dame Patience Jonathan, and state governors Ademola Adeleke (Osun), Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), as well as former Ogun State governor Senator Ibikunle Amosun.
Also present were the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, and Nigeria’s Second Lady, Hajia Nana Shettima, underscoring the national significance of the event.
Oba Ogunwusi, who led the rites, described the honour bestowed on Mrs Tinubu as a recognition of her contributions to national development and her commitment to uplifting women and children across the country.
The First Lady received her staff of office, symbolising her new role within the Oodua traditional hierarchy.
The ceremony, rich in pageantry and cultural symbolism, was a highlight of the Ooni’s decade on the throne, a period marked by expanded cultural diplomacy and efforts to strengthen Yoruba identity globally.
Senator Tinubu’s installation is expected to further position her as a key figure in promoting cultural heritage and social development initiatives within the Yoruba nation.
