The South-West Zonal Youth Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Adesuyi Daramola, has commended the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, for initiatives he says are supporting youth development, entrepreneurship and the preservation of Yoruba cultural heritage.

Daramola conveyed the commendation in a goodwill message marking the 2026 Olojo Festival in Ile-Ife, Osun State. The message was contained in a statement issued by Remilekun Oyelowo, Media and Publicity Director in the Office of the APC South-West Youth Leader.

The APC youth leader described the traditional ruler as a father figure who has demonstrated concern for the welfare and aspirations of young people, particularly across the South-West.

He said the Ooni's initiatives and investments had helped create opportunities for young Nigerians, especially in entrepreneurship and economic activities, while encouraging them to become more productive and contribute to society.

Daramola also recognised the monarch's advocacy for responsible leadership, particularly his reported calls on political officeholders to prioritise citizens' welfare over personal and political interests.

He maintained that young people needed an environment that allowed them to develop their abilities, access opportunities and participate meaningfully in national development.

The APC youth leader further highlighted the cultural importance of the Olojo Festival, describing it as an important occasion for celebrating the history, identity and traditions of Ile-Ife and the wider Yoruba community.

The annual festival is one of the major traditional celebrations associated with Ile-Ife. It features spiritual observances and cultural activities connected to the heritage of the Yoruba people. Ahead of the 2026 edition, the Ooni observed a seven-day spiritual seclusion as part of the traditional rites. <Cite refs={["turn235519search12","turn235519search14"]}/>

During the festival, the monarch also called on Nigerians to embrace peace, unity and collective responsibility, while dedicating his spiritual observance to prayers for the country, its leaders, families and young people. <Cite refs={["turn235519search14","turn235519search16"]}/>

Daramola said the festival's themes of thanksgiving, hope, renewal and unity offer an opportunity for reflection on values that promote peaceful coexistence and stronger communities.

He also encouraged Nigerian youths to remain peaceful, productive and committed to community development, urging them to take advantage of legitimate opportunities to contribute positively to their immediate environments and the country.

The APC youth leader extended his goodwill to the people of Ile-Ife and other Nigerians celebrating the festival, expressing hopes for peace, prosperity and sustainable development.

While Daramola's statement highlighted the Ooni's perceived contributions to youth empowerment, it did not provide specific figures or independently verifiable details of the jobs and economic opportunities attributed to the monarch's initiatives.

The commendation nevertheless places a spotlight on the role traditional institutions can play in conversations about youth development, cultural preservation and community engagement.