President John Dramani Mahama has been ceremonially inducted into the revered Yoruba chieftaincy title Aare Atayeto Oodua of the Source by the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Babatunde Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, at a grand traditional event held in Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria.

The prestigious honour, loosely translated as a leader who reshapes the global order for the benefit of humanity, was conferred in acknowledgement of President Mahama’s leadership credentials and his long-standing commitment to international cooperation, equity and sustainable growth.

The recognition places him in an exclusive category of personalities celebrated for influence that extends beyond their home countries.

The conferment followed days of ancestral rites and traditional preparations at the Ooni’s palace. The venue was adorned in elaborate cultural regalia as traditional rulers, distinguished guests and members of the Yoruba community gathered to observe what many described as a moment of deep cultural significance.

This development further expands President Mahama’s record of honours within Yoruba traditional institutions. In October 2015, he was installed as Aare Atolase of Offa by the Offa Kingdom in Kwara State, in recognition of his role in promoting leadership, peace and diplomacy across Africa.

Commentators believe the latest title will strengthen cultural and diplomatic ties between Ghana and Nigeria, underscoring the long-standing historical and social connections between the two nations.

The Ooni of Ife, regarded as one of the most influential custodians of Yoruba tradition, continues to champion cultural preservation, religious harmony and socio-economic advancement across Nigeria and the wider African diaspora.