The Office of the President has confirmed that President John Dramani Mahama will be conferred with a rare traditional honour by the Ooni of Ife in Nigeria, in recognition of his leadership and contributions to global and African affairs.
According to a statement published on the official social media platforms of the Presidency, preparations have reached an advanced stage in Osun State ahead of the ceremony, where His Imperial Majesty Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, will bestow on President Mahama the title ‘Aare Atayeto Oodua of the Source.’ The title translates as “a President who reorganises the global space for humanity.”
The statement noted that the honour is intended to recognise President Mahama’s “unwavering commitment to multilateralism, global equity, and his tireless advocacy for a fair international order that prioritises cooperation, sustainable development, and amplifies the voices of developing nations.”
It described the conferment as “not merely ceremonial,” but a profound acknowledgement of President Mahama’s statesmanship and vision for a more just world,” pointing to his recent address at the United Nations which, it said, resonated powerfully across Africa and beyond.
The Office of the President added that the ceremony will take place at the historic palace in Ile-Ife, the spiritual heartland of the Yoruba people, where activities are already underway in anticipation of the event, underscoring the significance attached to the honour by the traditional authorities and the host community.
