…As Sultan Applauds Monarch’s Vision for Education and Cultural Renewal
The Ooni of Ife, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja II, has unveiled the newly established Ojaja University Ile-Ife Campus, declaring the institution a lifelong legacy dedicated to the advancement of humanity.
The launch, held on Saturday within the university grounds, formed a central highlight of activities marking the monarch’s 10th Coronation Anniversary and drew an impressive gathering of eminent traditional rulers, national figures, and cultural ambassadors.
Ooni Ogunwusi, who also serves as Permanent Chairman of the Southern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council (SNTRC), said that genuine impact lies not in wealth or titles but in legacies that outlive individuals and transform future generations.
“There is nothing in this world if you don’t create a legacy for yourself. Wealth and positions can fade, but legacy lasts forever,” he said.
He urged education stakeholders to approach university development not as a profit-driven enterprise but as a national investment capable of shaping society, nurturing talent, and uplifting humanity.
The monarch expressed deep appreciation to the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, praising his longstanding guidance, friendship, and moral support. In response, the Sultan lauded the Ooni’s “transformative educational vision”, describing the university as a monumental contribution to the continent.
“This university has been built by the Ooni for humanity. I am grateful to Almighty Allah that in our time, we have a leader like you who is deeply committed to enhancing the lives of our people,” he said.
In his address, Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Professor Lere Baale, described Ojaja University as more than an academic institution, calling it “a cultural embassy where knowledge, heritage, and innovation meet.”
He added that the university was designed as a hub for African leadership renewal and a nurturing arena for emerging scientists, entrepreneurs, agriculturists, creatives, and cultural scholars.
The Vice-Chancellor of the main Ojaja University campus in Eyenkorin, Ilorin, Professor Jeleel Olasunkanmi, noted that the Ooni had set a remarkable precedent among African monarchs by taking direct ownership of a modern higher-education institution as a tool for empowerment and cultural revitalisation.
According to him, the model “sets a new benchmark for traditional rulers across the continent”.
The ceremony drew distinguished personalities, including the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi; Orangun of Oke-Ila, Oba Adedokun Abolarin; Orangun of Ila, Oba Wahab Kayode Adedeji; Ajero of Ijero-Ekiti, Oba Joseph Adewole; Iyalaje Oodua, Chief Toyin Kolade; and Yeye Bobajiro Oodua, Dr Afolashade Shona-Aluko, among many others.
The statement was signed by Otunba Moses Olafare, Director of Media and Public Affairs, Ooni’s Palace, Ile-Ife.
