His Imperial Majesty (HIM), Oba Dr. Adeyeye Enitan Babatunde Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, celebrates his 50th birthday, marking a life dedicated to leadership, entrepreneurship, and the cultural heritage of the Yoruba people. Born on October 17, 1974, into the royal family of Ropo and Margaret Ogunwusi, Ooni Ogunwusi hails from the esteemed Ojaja ruling compound of the Giesi ruling house in Ile-Ife. His birth, predicted to herald a significant figure, came precisely at 1 pm, solidifying his destiny as a leader of great influence.
Ooni Adeyeye’s royal lineage can be traced back to his great-grandfather, Ooni Ojaja Orarigba, the 44th Ooni of Ife. He descends from a line of warriors, leaders, and community advocates, with his grandfather and father making indelible marks in their time. This prestigious heritage shaped his sense of duty and community development, traits that have come to define his reign.
Before ascending the throne, Ooni Adeyeye established himself as an astute entrepreneur and businessman. He spent over 12 years in Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC), both in Nigeria and abroad, before becoming a significant player in real estate development. He was instrumental in developing over 2,500 housing units in partnership with various developers, establishing himself as a force in the housing and construction industry. His ventures included affordable housing projects like Essential Homes, aimed at middle and low-income earners, and several prestigious estates across Lagos.
In addition to real estate, Ooni Adeyeye’s visionary leadership extended to international trade and commerce. He fostered strong trade relations between Nigeria and several international markets, particularly in promoting Nigerian interests in solid minerals, agriculture, and steel manufacturing. His business acumen led to groundbreaking projects like the Sparkwest Steel Galvanizing Plant, and he played a pivotal role in advancing Nigeria’s rice production, contributing to the revitalization of Ofada rice.
A passionate philanthropist, Ooni Adeyeye’s contributions to community development are profound. He spearheaded electrification projects in his hometown, Ile-Ife, and beyond, improving the lives of his people. His efforts to develop Inagbe Island into a world-class resort demonstrated his commitment to boosting tourism in Nigeria and creating employment opportunities.
