Ooni Backs Soyinka-Led Africans-in-Diaspora Return Project

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has expressed strong support for the ongoing initiative led by Nobel laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka aimed at encouraging Africans in the Diaspora to reconnect with their ancestral roots.

The monarch made the pledge at his palace in Ile-Ife, Osun State, where he received Soyinka and members of his delegation. The team visited the ancient city to seek traditional backing for the project and to share updates on preparations for upcoming cultural engagements tied to the initiative.

Welcoming his guests, the Ooni described the project as a vital step toward strengthening cultural identity among people of African descent globally. He noted that Ile-Ife, regarded as the cradle of Yoruba civilisation, would continue to play a major role in efforts that promote unity, heritage preservation, and cultural exchange.

Oba Ogunwusi commended Soyinka for providing leadership in the initiative, stressing that the project would deepen global appreciation for African history and traditions. He also assured the delegation of full cooperation from the palace as activities tied to the programme unfold.

Soyinka, in his remarks during the visit, emphasized that the initiative seeks to create meaningful pathways for people of African heritage abroad to reconnect with the continent through culture, history, and community engagement.

The visit to the Ooni’s palace is part of a series of consultations being held across the country as the project gains wider traction.