The Permanent Chairman, Southern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council (SNTRC) and Arole Oodua, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja II, on Saturday inaugurated the Ojaja University Ile Ife Campus and dedicated the institution to the service and advancement of humanity.
The ceremony, held on the university grounds, was a major highlight of activities marking the tenth coronation anniversary of the Ooni of Ife.
In his remarks, Ooni Ogunwusi said legacy remains the most enduring contribution anyone can offer society.
“There is nothing in this world if you do not create a legacy for yourself. Wealth and positions can fade, but legacy lasts forever,” he said.
He urged stakeholders in the education sector to view university development not as a profit driven venture but as a generational investment in national growth and human advancement.
The Ooni also used the occasion to appreciate the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Saad Abubakar III, acknowledging his consistent support, wisdom and positive influence over the years.
Responding, the Sultan praised the Ooni for championing a transformative educational vision with the potential to shape the future of young Africans.
“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 improving the lives of our people,” he said.
In his address, the Pro Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of Ojaja University, Professor Lere Baale, described the institution as more than a centre of learning.
According to him, Ojaja University is not just an educational institution. It is a cultural embassy, a place where knowledge, heritage and innovation meet.
He added that the university is designed as a hub for African leadership renewal and a nurturing ground for entrepreneurs, scientists, agriculturists, creatives and cultural scholars.
Similarly, the Vice Chancellor of Ojaja University, Eyenkorin, Ilorin, Kwara State, Professor Jeleel Olasunkanmi, said the Ooni has broken new ground among African monarchs by taking direct institutional ownership of a university as a tool for empowerment and socio cultural revitalisation.
He noted that the Ooni’s model sets a new benchmark for traditional rulers across the continent.
The event drew a distinguished array of guests, including the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi; the Orangun of Oke Ila, Oba Adedokun Abolarin; the Orangun of Ila, Oba Wahab Kayode Adedeji; the Ajero of Ijero Ekiti, Oba Joseph Adewole; the Iyalaje Oodua, Chief Toyin Kolade; and Yeye Bobajiro Oodua, Dr. Afolashade Shona Aluko, among several other dignitaries.
