Monarchs move to honour late Ooni Okunade Sijuwade’s legacy

The Sijuwade Royal Family of Ile Ife, in collaboration with the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria, is set to hold a grand memorial of the 50th Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuwade, Olubuse II, who reigned from 1980 until his transition in 2015.

The 10th memorial commemoration is scheduled for July 25, 2025, at Harbour Point, Victoria Island, Lagos.

According to a statement, the commemorative events were designed to reflect the legacy of Oba Sijuwade, who would be remembered for his diplomacy, cultural advocacy, and commitment to the unity and progress of Nigeria and Africa.

One of the major highlights is “The Life & Times of Oba Okunade Sijuwade,” an exhibition that would feature personal artefacts, royal heirlooms, and rare memorabilia that tell the story of the monarch’s journey, reign, and enduring influence.

“This carefully curated display will provide guests with a rare, intimate window into the private and public life of a king who, in his lifetime, helped redefine traditional leadership in contemporary Africa.

“The centrepiece of the commemoration is the Oba Okunade Sijuwade Symposium, scheduled for the same venue on July 25, 2025, beginning at 3:30 PM (WAT),” the statement said.

The symposium is expected to feature keynote addresses from prominent African and international leaders, as well as a case study presentation by Prof Jacob Olupona of Harvard Divinity School on the theme:“Securing and Unifying Nigeria through Traditional Institutions.”

The statement added that a panel discussion, to be moderated by media scholar, Chief (Dr) Yemi Ogunbiyi, would bring together a diverse array of voices, including the Emir of Lafia, Justice Sidi Mohammed (retd); Orangun of Oke-Ila, Oba Adeokun Abolarin, and Tor Tiv, Prof James Ayatse, among others.