By Gloria Ikibah
The African Union Simulation has officially named the Ooni of Ife, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja II, as the Grand Patron of Traditional Institutions in Africa.
This recognition comes ahead of the Africa Day celebration scheduled to take place in Abuja. 
A delegation led by Ambassador Dr. Young Piero Omatseye, Africa Coordinator of the African Union Simulation, visited the Ooni at his palace in Ile-Ife on Friday, May 9, 2025, to present the honour and formally invite him to the upcoming event.
“We are here today on behalf of youths and leaders across 54 African countries to inform His Majesty that Africa Day will be commemorated through a blend of cultural traditions, training expeditions, and youth empowerment initiatives. Ooni of Ife, being a natural symbol of tradition, unity, and visionary leadership, has been unanimously nominated as the Grand Patron of the traditional institution in Africa,” Ambassador Omatseye said.
He added that the event will bring together African Heads of State, ministers, ambassadors, global partners, and experts in agriculture, energy, economy, innovation, and technology, all focusing on youth empowerment.
Ambassador Omatseye also recalled the participation of Her Regal Majesty, Amb. (Dr.) Temitope Enitan Ogunwusi, in a similar event at the African Union Headquarters in Addis Ababa last year, highlighting her role in promoting unity and youth development across the continent.
In her response, Her Majesty expressed her appreciation for the honour, praising the African Union Simulation for recognising her husband’s work in uplifting young people.
“My husband’s throne has become a platform for youth transformation across Africa. This prestigious nomination affirms the values he champions for the betterment of young Africans. We deeply appreciate this recognition,” she said.
The Ooni, in his remarks, thanked the delegation for the honour and promised his support.
“I thank the entire delegation and African youth who have traveled from across the continent to present this honour. I pray for the success of the Africa Day celebration and assure you of my support and presence, God willing,” he said.
The visit ended with the presentation of a plaque, officially confirming his role as Grand Patron of Traditional Institutions in Africa.
