The ancient city of Ile-Ife came alive in a vibrant celebration of culture, learning, and community spirit as activities marking the 10th coronation anniversary of the Arole Oodua and Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, reached a historic peak. Akahi News gathered that one of the most impactful highlights of the celebration was the rewarding of outstanding students who excelled in a specially organised quiz and debate competition held in the monarch’s honour.

Organised by the Victor Badejo Foundation, a non-governmental organisation owned by a protégé of the Ooni, Mr Victor Badejo, the initiative drew pupils and students from both primary and secondary schools across Ile-Ife. The programme was designed to renew focus on academic excellence while encouraging young minds to rise above limitations often associated with public education.

Celebrating Academic Excellence in the Heart of Yorubaland

Akahi News learnt that the educational competition involved several preliminary stages before the final round, which featured brilliant young contestants showcasing exceptional knowledge, confidence, and reasoning ability. The atmosphere was filled with anticipation as students displayed impressive command of current affairs, history, culture, and social responsibility.

At the end of the keenly contested contest, Saint John’s Primary School, Oke Atan, emerged winners of the quiz competition, while the debate category—centred on the topic “Traditional Rulers are More Responsible than Political Leaders”—was won by Oluorogbo Grammar School, Road 7, Ile-Ife.

Winners and participants were rewarded generously with cash gifts, school bags, textbooks, writing materials, and other essential educational supplies. Akahi News gathered that these items were carefully selected to support their continuous learning and relieve some of the burdens faced by families in a challenging economic climate.

Ooni Ogunwusi Commends Philanthropy and Teachers’ Dedication

In his royal address, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi praised Mr Victor Badejo for demonstrating a rare spirit of generosity and unwavering commitment to the development of society. The monarch described the initiative as an example of how private individuals can complement government efforts in improving the standard of education at the grassroots.

“What we have witnessed today is a reminder of the urgent need for deliberate attention to public education,” the Ooni said. “Despite the absence of modern facilities in many of our schools, these students continue to shine. I commend their teachers for their tireless dedication. Today, their commitment has borne visible fruit.”

According to Akahi News, the Ooni further stressed that if schools across the region receive adequate support, the outcome would be a generation of leaders prepared to transform not only Ile-Ife, but Nigeria at large.

Stakeholders Call for Collective Responsibility in Education

Speaking on behalf of the Osun State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Senior Legal Adviser, Barrister Debo Adedini, described the competition as a reflection of positive educational growth within the community.

He stressed that the future of education should not rest solely on the government’s shoulders, noting that individuals, NGOs, religious institutions, traditional authorities, and corporate organisations all have crucial roles to play.

According to Akahi News, he stated that the event was not only intellectually engaging but also helped broaden the perspectives of the participating students, preparing them for leadership roles in the future.

Victor Badejo: “This Is My Personal Tribute to the Ooni”

In his address, Mr Victor Badejo described the programme as his personal gesture of gratitude to the Ooni of Ife, whom he referred to as a father, mentor, and inspiration.

“There is no greater way to honour Kabiyesi than to invest in the society that raised and shaped me,” he said. “For ten years, Baba Oonirisa has nurtured and guided many of us. Through this foundation, I encourage Nigerians at the grassroots to support education. When children are given the opportunity to shine, the future becomes more secure.”

Akahi News gathered that his wife, Mrs Opeyemi Badejo, equally praised the students for their outstanding performance and urged them not to lose focus, reminding them that discipline and consistency remain the keys to success.

Sports, Unity and Community Festivities

Beyond academics, the anniversary was also celebrated through sports as part of activities lined up to mark the special occasion. A novelty football match, organised by the Victor Badejo Foundation at the Oduduwa College football pitch, saw the Ife Youth Organisation defeat Titans Future Builders 2–0. The match brought together youths from different backgrounds, further strengthening unity and communal bonding in the ancient town.

According to Akahi News, this blend of education and sports reflected the Ooni’s vision of a well-rounded and empowered younger generation — one equipped intellectually, physically, and morally.

A Decade of Purposeful Leadership

As Ooni Ogunwusi marks ten years on the sacred throne of Oduduwa, the anniversary events have once again highlighted his commitment to youth development, cultural preservation, peace advocacy, and educational advancement. Through support from individuals like Victor Badejo and the collective effort of community stakeholders, Ile-Ife continues to set an example of how traditional leadership can inspire modern progress.

Akahi News learnt that residents and observers alike described the celebration as not just a remembrance of a coronation, but a reminder of hope, responsibility, and the need to invest in the next generation.

As the festivities draw to a close, one message remains clear: empowering young minds today is the surest way to build a stable and prosperous tomorrow.

By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News Joseph Iyaji is a journalist, educator, and founder of Akahi G. International, Akahi Tutors, and Akahi News. Read more about him here.

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