The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, on Monday conferred a chieftaincy title on the President of Ghana, John Mahama.
Mahama was installed as “Atayeto of Oodua of the Source” by Oba Adeyeye in a colourful ceremony as part of the activities marking his 10th coronation anniversary in Ile‑Ife.
In his remarks, the Ooni said that the chieftaincy was given to Mahama because of his efforts in reforming Ghana’s economy and his passion in the development of Africa as a whole.
Oba Ogunwusi, who described Mahama as a friend and brother, said that he was one of the people who supported him while vying for the Ooni stool.
According to the Ooni, Mahama’s relationship with Ile‑Ife and the palace predates his current recognition, recalling that the Ghanaian leader had maintained close ties with the palace.
The Ooni further described Ile‑Ife as Mahama’s home, recalling how the President continued to identify with the town.
“This palace is not new to you. You have been here before, and throughout my journey to becoming the Ooni of Ife, you have been part of that journey.
“You have grown with us in our midst. You are a leader of great refinement, vision and purpose. I am deeply grateful and proud of you,” he said.
The Ooni commended Mahama’s economic acumen, describing him as a leader with a special economic touch.
The traditional ruler noted that the impact of Mahama’s leadership in Ghana was already resonating across the African continent and the global Black diaspora.
“I want to commend you for turning around the economy of Ghana since assuming office as President,” he said.
“I want to urge you to sustain the ongoing transformation in Ghana and let it spread to the African continent.”
Gov. Ademola Adeleke of Osun commended Mahama for his outstanding contributions to peace, unity and regional stability across Africa and the global community.
Represented by his deputy, Kola Adewusi, Adeleke said that Mahama’s role in mediating between the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and countries in the Sahel region was commendable.
“Mahama’s role in mediating between ECOWAS and Sahel countries stands out as a landmark intervention at a critical time when tensions in the sub‑region have heightened and many stakeholders are ‘beating the drums of war”, he said.
Adeleke commended Mahama for his consistent presence on the global stage, where he has continued to advocate for a more united and peaceful world order.
“President Mahama is a strong advocate of peace and unity, not only within West Africa but across the world.
His commitment to diplomacy, dialogue and coexistence has earned him respect beyond national and continental boundaries,” he said.
Adeleke noted that Mahama’s installation as Aare Atayato Oodua of the Source was well deserved, stressing that the honour reflects his lifelong dedication to peace‑building and humanitarian ideals.
“Mahama is truly a global peace ambassador. I warmly congratulate you on this installation and recognition for your unwavering commitment to peace and unity,” he said.
In response, President Mahama appreciated the Ooni for deeming it fit to confer a chieftaincy title on him.
He thanked the Ooni for his love and for always standing by his side.
Mahama said that when he lost his re‑election in 2016, the Ooni invited him to Ile‑Ife, showed him secret places in the palace and prayed that he would be re‑elected.
“And when I re‑contested in 2024, I won and am now President of Ghana.
“The people of Nigeria and Ghana are family, and I am happy to receive this chieftaincy title,” he added.
Mahama, who noted that he had spent part of his life in Lagos, Offa in Kwara and Kano, said that Nigeria and Ghana are brothers.
He also commended President Bola Tinubu, whom he described as a brother and mentor.
“I want to appreciate President Tinubu for his love for me and Ghana. I
” I want to thank President Tinubu for the friendship we share. I have known him for many years, and he has been like an elder brother to me.
“He has been a source of inspiration; on this occasion I want to thank him and dedicate this chieftaincy to him.
“As long as I remain President of Ghana, I will work to bring the two countries together and bridge the gap between them and ECOWAS.”
Mahama also said that leaders in West African countries should build a bridge between ECOWAS and the Sahel nations.
“Our destinies are tied together, and we must continue to encourage them to return to the fold,” he said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the ceremony was witnessed by business mogul Aliko Dangote, former President of Botswana Mokgweetsi Masisi, traditional rulers, among others.
