Mahama honoured with top Yoruba title in Nigeria

President John Dramani Mahama has been installed as Aare Atayeto Oodua of the Source by the Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty Oba Adeyeye Enitan Babatunde Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, at a grand ceremony in Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria.

The highly esteemed Yoruba chieftaincy title, loosely interpreted as “a president who reorganises the global space for the benefit of humanity”, was bestowed in recognition of Mahama’s leadership credentials and his consistent advocacy for global cooperation, equity, and sustainable development.

The installation followed several days of traditional rites and palace preparations at the Ooni’s residence, in line with Yoruba custom.

Also readPatience Akyianu, former Barclays Bank Ghana MD and Hollard CEO, reportedly dies

The ceremony itself drew a large gathering of traditional rulers, chiefs, dignitaries, and members of the Yoruba community, with the palace grounds adorned in rich cultural displays that underscored the significance of the occasion.

Mahama has earned international recognition for his firm support of multilateralism and a more balanced global order.

Also readL.I. 2519: Full list of road traffic offences and jail terms in Ghana

Through various international platforms, including addresses at the United Nations, he has repeatedly called for collective global action on pressing issues such as climate change and economic inequality, while championing greater representation for developing nations in global governance.

This latest honour adds to Mahama’s growing list of traditional titles within the Yoruba cultural space.

Also readAccra-Kumasi Expressway: Route, interchanges, distance and key details of the 198.7km project

In October 2015, he was conferred with the title Aare Atolase of Offa by the Offa Kingdom in Kwara State, in acknowledgement of his contributions to leadership and diplomacy.

The installation is widely seen as a gesture that will further deepen cultural and diplomatic relations between Ghana and Nigeria, highlighting the enduring historical and cultural ties between the two West African nations.

The Ooni of Ife, one of the most revered traditional rulers among the Yoruba people, remains a central figure in the promotion of Yoruba heritage, interfaith harmony, and socio-economic development across Nigeria and the broader African diaspora.