In a momentous display of royal impact, community service, and youth empowerment, Her Regal Majesty, Olori Ambassador (Dr) Temitope Enitan-Ogunwusi, Wife of the Ooni of Ife and Deputy Convener of the Hopes Alive Initiative for Africa (HAI), on Saturday, July 12, 2025, led a landmark event in the ancient town of Ejigbo, Osun State.
The event featured the official groundbreaking of a state-of-the-art vocational centre and the 2025 Back-to-School Outreach, powered by HAI in collaboration with ONG Emergence, Espoir Foundation, and Songare Ibrahima.
The day began with a royal homage by Olori Temitope to the Ogiyan of Ejigbo, His Royal Majesty, Oba Omowonuola Oyeyode Oyeyosin. The symbolic visit reinforced the sacred bond between traditional institutions and service to the people.
Her Regal Majesty was warmly received by the Ogiyan, who was joined by a host of prominent traditional rulers and esteemed chiefs from across the kingdom. The colourful reception was marked by cultural fanfare, traditional salutations, and heartfelt expressions of honour, as the royal fathers came together to welcome Olori Temitope and her entourage in a manner befitting her status.
The gathering underscored the deep respect accorded to the House of Oduduwa and reaffirmed the unity among Yoruba royal institutions.
Her Majesty, joined by a distinguished entourage of royals including HRM Oba Babatunde Tokunbo Awosunle (Elejesi of Elejesi-Ife), HRM Oba Adekunle Adebowale (Agbolu of Agbaje-Ife), and Olori Oluwatoyin Elugbemi (Wife of the Obalaaye of Iraye Kingdom, Ile-Ife), proceeded to Josco Hotel Main Hall I for the outreach programme before arriving at the groundbreaking site for the vocational centre.
The initiative was inspired by the remarkable vision of a young indigene of Ejigbo, Mr. Hamzat Oriyomi Ibrahim, currently based in Côte d'Ivoire. Discovered by Olori Temitope during one of her humanitarian visits to the West African country, Mr. Oriyomi was inspired by the Ooni’s youth-focused global initiatives and chose to bring the same spark home.
His idea to establish a vocational training centre in Ejigbo was placed under the auspices of HAI to align with the vision of youth empowerment being championed by the royal household.
"I sincerely thank the Ooni of Ife and Her Regal Majesty for their support, guidance, and belief in my vision. Their involvement has made this project not just possible, but impactful. I ask for your continued prayers as I strive to give back to my hometown."
He also urged parents to be more proactive in guiding their children who seek opportunities abroad: "Many of our young people leave the country without a clear plan, only to face difficulties. Parents must ask questions, offer support, and help them define purpose before making such critical moves."
In her keynote remarks, Olori Temitope expressed deep appreciation to the revered monarch, the Ogiyan of Ejigbo, and the good people of the town for their warm reception:
"I am overwhelmed by the hospitality and unity I’ve experienced in this great town. I extend my sincere gratitude to Kabiyesi and all sons and daughters of Ejigbo for embracing this vision."
Addressing the children and parents, she added: "Dear children, always listen to your parents and take your studies seriously. Education is your key to the future. And to the parents, I urge you to remain vigilant and involved in every aspect of your children's lives educationally, emotionally, and morally."
Her Majesty also conveyed a special message from His Imperial Majesty, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi Ojaja II, Chief Convener of HAI:
"Kabiyesi is immensely proud of this initiative and of his son, Oriyomi. He sends his royal greetings and prayers for Ejigbo. He urges everyone to continue to pray for, support, and celebrate their own, just as this young man has chosen to remember and serve his roots."
The Ogiyan of Ejigbo, Oba Oyeyode Oyeyosin, speaking with joy and reverence, said the visit was unprecedented in the history of the kingdom: "It is a historic honour to receive Her Majesty, the Olori of our father, the Ooni of Ife, in our land. This moment will be remembered for generations. We are grateful beyond words."
The revered monarch also praised His Imperial Majesty for his humility and approachability: "Kabiyesi Ooni is not only wise and compassionate, but his sense of humour and ability to connect with people is extraordinary. I saw the clip where he played the drum like a master, it reminded me that true royalty uplifts and unites.
Oba Oyeyosin lauded Mr. Oriyomi's heart for service and added: "For a young man to return home with such a vision is remarkable. I pray God continues to provide for and protect him. May Ejigbo be blessed through his hands and heart."
More than one thousand children received essential school supplies during the outreach, while cultural displays and young talents lit up the event venue.
The undisputed highlight of the day was a stunning dance performance by a gifted little girl, whose display earned a warm and proud reaction from Olori Temitope, leaving the audience in awe.
The event was more than an outreach—it was a celebration of heritage, legacy, and a spark of hope for future generations.
