His Imperial Majesty, Arole Oduduwa, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi Ojaja II, the Ooni of Ife, has reaffirmed Africa’s place on the global stage following his arrival at the Astana International Forum 2025 in Kazakhstan.
Representing Nigeria and the broader vision of a rising Africa, the Ooni's message highlights the significance of African leadership in shaping the global future.
The Astana International Forum, a major international platform that brings together world leaders, innovators, and changemakers, serves as a strategic space for dialogue on global cooperation, innovation, and diplomacy.
“A new dawn is rising. From the Source of Africa to the Heart of Central Asia, history is unfolding. I arrived in Kazakhstan to represent not only Nigeria—but the hopes, potential, and power of a new Africa—at the Astana International Forum 2025.
"As I stepped into this global gathering of world leaders, innovators, and changemakers, the message was clear: Africa is no longer waiting to be invited to the table—we are building our own, and the world is watching.”, the Ooni stated.
He described the first day of the forum as a “powerful exchange of ideas and purpose,” emphasizing the role of cross-continental collaboration in creating a new global reality:
“The conversations have reinforced what I’ve always believed: when Africa and the world unite—through trade, innovation, culture, and diplomacy—we open new frontiers that can shift the axis of global power.”
His Imperial Majesty also announced that he has the honour of delivering a keynote address at the forum, focusing on the boundless possibilities of Africa–Central Asia relations. He framed this moment as an era of actionable partnerships and shared prosperity:
“We are entering an era where our shared prosperity is not just imaginable—it is actionable.”
He concluded with a rallying call to fellow Africans and global partners, urging them to embrace a renewed sense of purpose and unity in shaping the continent’s future:
“Let this moment be a call to all visionaries, leaders, and children of the continent:
The new Africa is here. Rooted in tradition. Driven by innovation. Defined by partnership.”
The post has drawn wide attention across social media, with many praising the Ooni’s visionary leadership and commitment to advancing Africa’s global standing.
His presence and participation at the Astana International Forum 2025 marks a significant milestone in strengthening Africa’s voice in international policy, diplomacy, and sustainable development.