The Ooni of Ife, Arole Oduduwa, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja II, has called for stronger collaboration between Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) and the palace in advancing Yoruba culture and heritage.
The monarch’s remarks came during the stage presentation of Ijaye, a Yoruba classic by legendary dramatist Wale Ogunyemi, performed in his honour by the renowned Okin Trains Theatre Troupe in collaboration with the House of Oduduwa. The production, which featured talented staff and students of OAU, was staged inside the palace.
The Ooni noted that while the institution has continued to excel in academic and artistic pursuits, the level of town–gown relationship in Ile-Ife still falls short of its full potential.
Speaking after the cultural performance at the Ile Oodua Palace, he commended the university’s staff and students for their creativity but stressed the need to deepen ties with the palace.
“I want to commend all of you for a truly remarkable performance. You have done wonderfully well, and your thoughtfulness in bringing this initiative to the palace is deeply appreciated. However, there is still much more to be done.
"Your university’s motto, ‘For Learning and Culture,’ speaks volumes — and here, in the palace, you are at the very heart of culture. Yet, I must say that the level of town–gown relationship is still not where it should be. We must strengthen this bond.
"The palace should be more involved in joint efforts with the university to promote our cultural heritage through more activities like what we have witnessed today.”
The event also coincided with the Ooni’s hosting of His Majesty King Monday Obukohwo Whiskey, Ph.D, Udurhie I, Ovie of the Great Idjerhe Kingdom, Delta State — a rare blend of cultural performance and royal diplomacy that further underscored themes of unity and shared heritage.
Moved by the troupe’s performance, the Ooni rewarded them with cash prizes and gifts running into millions of naira, reaffirming his support for initiatives that promote Yoruba traditions, creativity, and cultural pride.