The ancient city of Ile-Ife is once again filled with joy and jubilation as the royal household of the Arole Oduduwa, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, celebrates the first birthday of Crown Prince Ademakinwa today, September 3, 2025.
The Crown Prince, born exactly a year ago at the Princess Royal Hospital in London, is the beloved son of the Ooni and Yeye Omi Oodua, Olori Ashley Afolasade Adeyeye Ogunwusi.
His birth was hailed as a historic moment, uniting two royal lineages—the Ooni Adagba Royal Compound of the Lafogido Ruling House and the Ooni Agbedegbede Royal Compound of the Giesi Ruling House—making him a true heir of the sacred throne of Oduduwa.
Marking his son’s birthday, the Ooni took to his official Instagram page to share heartfelt words and beautiful pictures of the young prince:
“My beloved son, Omooba Ademakinwa,
You are a true blessing to me and to the sacred throne of Oduduwa. As you continue to grow in wisdom, strength and grace, always remember the divine heritage you carry as a prince of Ile-Ife.
"As you celebrate your birthday, may your path be guided by the values of honor, humility, and service to humanity.
I am proud to see you walking in the light of Olodumare as you are one today!
With fatherly love and royal blessings.”
These words capture the deep affection and spiritual significance attached to the young prince’s journey as he begins to take his place in the royal lineage.
For Olori Ashley, this milestone is not just about celebrating her son but also a testimony of resilience, faith, and divine favor. Having endured the painful loss of twins in 2023, the queen described Prince Ademakinwa’s arrival as a “Crown Prince from both sides of the parents,” a blessing that embodies continuity, unity, and hope for the House of Oduduwa.
The birth and homecoming of Prince Ademakinwa last February was a historic celebration that attracted traditional rulers, dignitaries, and well-wishers from far and near. Elders of Ile-Ife prayed for his long life, wisdom, and the strength to uphold the revered legacy of his forefathers.
Now, as he turns one, the young prince symbolizes the continuity of tradition and the future of Yoruba royalty, standing as a beacon of unity between the ruling houses and the people of Ife.
Today, as drums beat and chants rise across the royal palace and beyond, the people of Ile-Ife celebrate not just the birthday of a child, but the dawn of a new chapter in their cultural history. Crown Prince Ademakinwa is seen as both a blessing and a bridge between the past and the future of the Yoruba throne.
The House of Oduduwa remains strong, rooted in heritage yet embracing the modern world. And with the Crown Prince marking his first birthday, the palace continues to radiate joy, divine favor, and the promise of continuity for generations to come.
Long live Prince Ademakinwa, Crown Prince of the Source!
