In a vibrant display of cultural diplomacy, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, has extended his profound gratitude to the Government and people of Alberta, Canada, for their exceptional hospitality during the historic Oodua Global Concert.
This event, held on Friday, June 26, 2026, at Calgary’s prestigious Jack Singer Concert Hall, served as a powerful testament to the Ooni’s unwavering commitment to strengthening cultural ties between his Palace and the African diaspora communities across Canada.
Representing the Ooni, his Director of Media and Public Affairs, Otunba Moses Olafare, conveyed heartfelt appreciation to the Alberta Provincial Government.
He specifically acknowledged Premier H.E. Danielle Smith for her thoughtful welcome letter, Minister Rajan Sawhney for her extraordinary efforts in assisting the royal delegation with protocol matters, describing their support as “going above and beyond.”
Despite unforeseen protocol challenges that regrettably prevented the Ooni of Ife from attending in person with his full entourage, his dedication to his global subjects remained steadfast.
Otunba Olafare assured the attendees, including members of the African, Caribbean, multicultural communities, particularly the Yoruba community in Alberta, that the Ooni’s Palace remains committed to visiting the province once outstanding issues are resolved.
The Ooni’s presence was ably represented by a high-powered delegation, including members of the Ife Royal Family and the senior Palace manager, underscoring the importance of the event.
The concert also served as a platform to commend the tireless efforts of individuals like Dr. Akin Osakuade, a Calgary-based medical practitioner, for his vision and dedication in sponsoring and organizing the Oodua Concert.
The Nigerian Canadian Association of
Calgary, the Yoruba Foundation of Calgary and Edmonton, the Okin Cultural Association, and more other cultural organizations were also recognized for their collective contributions to the event’s success.
Otunba Olafare highlighted the Ooni’s consistent efforts since his coronation in 2015 to connect with African diaspora, emphasizing his 11-point agenda focused on cultural revolution.
This agenda includes initiatives to bring Africans in the diaspora closer to Ile-Ife,
the ancestral home and traditional headquarters of the Black heritage globally.
He recounted the Ooni’s previous visits to the US, the UK, and Ghana, where he was declared “The New Face of Pan- Africanism,” demonstrating unwavering commitment to rallying his subjects worldwide.
Otunba Olafare reassured the audience that the Ooni eagerly anticipates a future visit to Calgary and the wider Alberta province.
The evening culminated in a captivating performance by Afro-Hip-hop legend Adekunle Gold, who serenaded the audience, particularly the youth, with his live music, fostering an atmosphere of joy and cultural celebration.
The royal delegation, including Sooko Laekun of Ife, Prince Adegboyega Ogunwusi, Princess Foladade Ogunwus -Fadairo, and Otunba Moses Olafare, later explored the scenic beauty of Banffs before returning to Nigeria.
Their concluded memorable visit further cemented the bonds of friendship and cultural cooperation between the House of Oduduwa and African diaspora communities in Canada.
