The ancient city of Ile-Ife, the cradle of Yoruba civilization, will come alive in a grand splendour on December, 5 2025 as dignitaries, traditional rulers, community leaders, captains of industry, and cultural enthusiasts will gather at the Ojaja Event Centre, Ibadan Road, Ile Ife to witness the historic installation of Chief (Mrs.) Olayinka Latinwo as the Yeye Bobagunwa Oodua by Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi Ojaja II.
The ceremony, which will be held under the royal authority of the Arole Oduduwa, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, symbolizes honour, cultural preservation, and recognition of a woman who embodies excellence in leadership, philanthropy, and the promotion of Yoruba heritage.
The naming of Chief Mrs.Olayinka Latinwo, the Iya Oba Isin Kingdom as Yeye Bobagunwa Oodua stands as a testament to her impactful contributions to society and the confidence reposed in her by the throne of Oduduwa. It also reflects the Ooni’s continued efforts to honour deserving individuals who uphold the values of culture, community development, and noble character.
Also, the title Yeye Bobagunwa Oodua is historically bestowed on distinguished women who demonstrate exceptional courage, generosity, and leadership—attributes associated with the legendary warrior cadre in Yoruba cosmology. The Ooni, known for his commitment to preserving culture and celebrating excellence personally endorsed Chief Mrs Olayinka Latinwo for the title owing to her quality leadership attributes.
Chief Mrs. Olayinka Latinwo is reputed for her longstanding dedication to humanitarian services, philanthropy, and support for grassroots initiatives. Over the years, she has become a beacon of hope for widows, orphans, and underprivileged families through structured empowerment programmes, vocational training, and community outreach.
The Ooni, will be flanked by high-ranking traditional chiefs of the kingdom, invoked blessings upon her, extolling her virtues of humility, service, and unwavering commitment to societal development.
The title Bobagunwa, is traditionally associated with strategic leadership, diplomacy, and custodianship of cultural values, one of the revered positions in the hierarchy of the Oduduwa palace structure. As Yeye Bobagunwa Oodua, Chief Mrs. Latinwo becomes the female pillar of the Bobagunwa institution, she is expected to serve as a bridge between the palace and women across Yoruba land.
Her new role encompasses supporting cultural development programs, advancing community welfare initiatives, and serving as an ambassador of peace and tradition. The position also places her among the distinguished circle of women leaders under the revered Oodua dynasty.
Friends, family, and associates of Chief Mrs Latinwo from across Nigeria and beyond will also be in attendance to celebrate and honor her for the prestigeous title of Yeye Bobagunwa Oodua in grand style.
For the people of Ile-Ife and the entire Yoruba nation, it is going to be a day of pride—a celebration of heritage, leadership, and the enduring relevance of traditional institutions.
