First Lady Oluremi Tinubu Installed as Yeye Asiwaju Gbogbo Ile Oodua by Ooni of Ife

Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, was conferred with the prestigious traditional chieftaincy
title of Yeye Asiwaju Gbogbo Ile Oodua (The Matron and Mother Leader of the Entire Yoruba Land) by the paramount ruler of the Yoruba race, the Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II.

The colourful installation ceremony took place on Sunday, December 7, 2025, at the Palace Square in Ile-
Ife, Osun State. The event served as the grand finale of the celebrations marking the monarch’s 10th
coronation anniversary.

The title Yeye Asiwaju Gbogbo Ile Oodua is considered one of the highest honors conferred within the
Yoruba kingdom, recognizing leadership, cultural influence, and service across the entire Oodua race
(which encompasses all Yoruba people globally).
The Ooni noted that the title carries deep historical weight, having been previously held by the late Chief
Hannah Idowu Dideolu (HID) Awolowo, wife of the revered Nigerian statesman, Chief Obafemi
Awolowo.

Senator Tinubu arrived at the Ooni’s palace amid significant fanfare and security. The Traditional chiefs performed installation rites in accordance with ancient customs.
The ceremony drew a high-profile gathering of traditional rulers, political leaders, and dignitaries from
across Nigeria, reflecting the national significance of the honor. Notable figures in attendance included: Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, Governors of Osun, Lagos, and Ogun States, Former First Lady, Patience Jonathan, and The Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III.

In conferring the title, the Ooni of Ife praised the First Lady for her commitment to the welfare of
women and the girl-child, describing her as a “mother of the nation” who has contributed to national
development.
In her response, Mrs. Tinubu expressed profound gratitude for the recognition, calling the honor both
humbling and divine. She reiterated her confidence in the current administration, stating that ongoing
economic reforms would soon reposition Nigeria as a financial pillar in Africa.

This installation is one of several traditional titles bestowed upon Senator Tinubu in recent years,
recognizing her humanitarian efforts and leadership across various ethnic and cultural zones in the
country.

By Oyinkansola Shittu.

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