Ooni’s Chieftaincy’ll Strengthen Ghana-Nigeria Relations, Says Ghana’s President Mahama

John Dramani Mahama, the President of Ghana, has expressed that his installation as ‘Aare Atayeto Oodua of the Source’ by His Imperial Majesty, Ooni Adeyeye Babatunde Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, symbolised a new chapter in the long-standing bond between Ghana and Nigeria.

The statement was made during the heartfelt address he delivered at the Ooni’s Palace, Ile-Ife, Osun State, on December 15, 2025. The installation ceremony drew numerous dignitaries and guests, all gathered to witness the significant cultural event.

In an emotionally charged speech, President Mahama emphasised that the chieftaincy title he received not only honours him personally but serves as a vital link to further reinforce the fraternal ties between the two neighbouring nations. He recounted a pivotal moment from his political journey, highlighting the crucial role the Ooni played in his re-election campaign. Mahama shared a memorable experience from when he was in opposition, revealing that the Ooni had insisted on a visit to his palace, where he experienced a warm welcome and engaged in meaningful discussions.

Reflecting on that crucial visit, he stated, “Kabiyesi took me to the palace’s most sacred areas and encouraged me to express my deepest desires. After that, he assured me, ‘Go, and you will reclaim your seat.’ In 2024, to my delight, I was re-elected as President.”

Further expressing his sentiments, Mahama remarked on the longstanding kinship between the peoples of Ghana and Nigeria, asserting, “When Nigeria thrives, Ghana thrives. Our connection is profound; we are like twins born of the same mother, sharing similar aspirations whether in our passion for football or our culinary pride in jollof rice.”

He also reminisced about his childhood years spent in Nigeria, following his father’s exile. In a touching dedication, he honoured his late stepmother, who hailed from Offa in Kwara State, a place he called home for several years post-university.

“I humbly accept this chieftaincy title on behalf of the wonderful people of Ghana, as it sends a powerful message about our shared relationship,” Mahama said. He continued, “In memory of my stepmother, Hajia Nusirat Balogun, I embrace this honour. When my father was exiled, it was decided that I should accompany him for companionship. Thus, I lived for years in Nigeria, in places like Lagos, Offa, and Kano alongside my late stepmother’s brother, Sharaf Balogun.”

During the ceremony, Ooni Adeyeye took the opportunity to express his appreciation for President Mahama. He stated, “On behalf of the House of Oduduwa, I extend our deepest gratitude to His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama for graciously accepting the immense responsibility of becoming a beacon of hope, a pillar of honor, and a symbol of unity for Africa as the Aare Atayeto Oodua. This distinguished recognition underscores your remarkable leadership, unwavering commitment to African unity, and lifelong dedication to humanity. The Oduduwa dynasty takes great pride in welcoming you into this esteemed rank, which stands as a testament to wisdom, courage, and stewardship for our continent.”

The ceremony not only celebrates the rich cultural heritage but also sets the stage for enhanced cooperation and collaboration between Ghana and Nigeria, further solidifying the bond between these two nations.