In yet another profound display of compassion and commitment to humanity, the Hopes Alive Initiative for Africa (HAI), under the distinguished leadership of His Imperial Majesty, Arole Oduduwa Olofin Adimula, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, and Her Regal Majesty, Olori Ambassador (Dr) Temitope Enitan-Ogunwusi, brought warmth, joy, and renewed hope to hundreds of elderly citizens at the Annual Aged Fend Project 2025, held at the Ooni’s Palace, Enuwa Square, Ile-Ife.
The event, a flagship humanitarian outreach of HAI, reaffirmed the vision of the royal couple to promote inclusive community care, dignity for the aged, and sustainable social impact across Africa. It featured music, dance, games, health and wellness support, and the distribution of food items and cash gifts to senior citizens drawn from within and around the ancient city of Ile-Ife.
Representing the Ooni of Ife, Her Regal Majesty, Olori Ambassador (Dr) Temitope Enitan-Ogunwusi, gracefully delivered her husband’s heartfelt message of love, blessings, and gratitude to the elderly beneficiaries. She described them as “living treasures whose wisdom and sacrifices remain the backbone of our communities.”
Conveying the Ooni’s words, she noted that the Aged Fend Project was not merely an act of charity but a sacred duty rooted in Yoruba values of communal love and respect for elders.
“Kabiyesi, the Ooni of Ife, believes that a society that neglects its aged has lost its moral compass. This outreach is a way to honour our elders, to remind them that they are loved, valued, and never forgotten,” she stated.
In what became one of the most touching moments of the day, Her Regal Majesty specially recognized two remarkable senior citizens — a 150-year-old man and a 108-year-old woman — who were joyfully celebrated and brought to the high table in honour of their long life and enduring strength. The heartwarming gesture drew emotional applause from the audience, symbolizing the essence of the project — love, honour, and gratitude to those who have given their all to society.
With her signature humility and radiance, Olori Temitope Enitan-Ogunwusi, who serves as the Deputy Convener of Hopes Alive Initiative for Africa, led the distribution of essential food packages, cash gifts, and wellness support items to the elated participants. Her presence, marked by warmth and elegance, turned the palace courtyard into a sanctuary of joy and thanksgiving.
She reiterated her unshakable commitment to humanitarian service, acknowledging her husband’s inspiration and unwavering support as the driving force behind her mission.
“All glory and credit go to my husband, His Imperial Majesty, the Ooni of Ife, whose vision and compassion make it possible for me to fulfill my divine calling through the Hopes Alive Initiative,” she expressed with heartfelt gratitude.
“Through HAI, we continue to touch lives, heal hearts, and give hope to the hopeless, especially our elderly ones who deserve care, respect, and happiness in their golden years,” she added.
In her remarks, Her Regal Majesty also noted that this year’s edition marks the seventh in the series, describing it as a testament to HAI’s enduring commitment to the welfare of the aged and the vulnerable in society. She emphasized that this year’s edition is particularly special as it coincides with the 10th Coronation Anniversary of His Imperial Majesty, the Ooni of Ife, making it a double celebration of purpose, compassion, and divine grace.
The Hopes Alive Initiative for Africa (HAI), established by the royal couple, has become one of the most impactful humanitarian platforms championing the causes of the vulnerable — including widows, youths, and the elderly — through empowerment programmes, health interventions, and social inclusion projects across Nigeria and beyond.
The Annual Aged Fend Project, in particular, stands as a beacon of hope, emphasizing that love, empathy, and collective responsibility remain the hallmarks of true African royalty.
As drums rolled, elders danced, and laughter filled the air at the Ooni’s Palace, the event not only provided material support but also restored dignity and happiness to those who have long served their communities.
The day’s activities drew to a close with prayers and expressions of gratitude to the royal hosts for their enduring commitment to humanity. In the words of one of the elderly participants, “Kabiyesi and Olori Temitope have shown us that true royalty is service — not just to the throne, but to the people.”
Through the Hopes Alive Initiative, Their Imperial Majesties continue to embody the timeless Yoruba principle of “Omoluabi” — compassion, integrity, and service to mankind.
