Nairobi: President John Dramani Mahama has been awarded a prestigious chieftaincy title as Aare Atayeto Oodua of the Source by Oba Adeyeye Enitan Babatunde Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, the Ooni of Ife, Nigeria. The Yoruba title is interpreted as lA President or a Leader who Reorganizes the Global Space for Humanity. Receiving the award, President Mahama expressed gratitude to the Ooni for the honour done to him.

According to Ghana News Agency, President Mahama said he was receiving the award on behalf of his late stepmother Hajia Nusrat Balogun. He emphasized the historic bond between the people of Ghana and Nigeria, stating that the prosperity of one nation leads to the prosperity of the other. He humorously noted the friendly rivalry between the two countries when it comes to football and cooking jollof rice.

He dedicated the chieftaincy title to all the people of Ghana, stating that it would further cement the relations between Ghana and Nigeria. President Mahama reflected on the historical bond between the two nations, recalling his familys ties to Nigeria. He recounted how his late father, Mr. EA Mahama, sought exile in Nigeria following a military coup in Ghana, which led to him living in Nigeria for several years.

President Mahama shared fond memories of being warmly received in Nigeria, feeling like a part of the community. He noted that his experiences in Nigeria created a lasting bond with the country and emphasized his commitment to strengthening Ghana-Nigeria relations during his presidency. He also highlighted the historical connection of the Ga people of Greater Accra to Ile-Ife in Nigeria.

Expressing gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria for their enduring friendship, President Mahama dedicated the chieftaincy title to him. He praised President Tinubu as a source of inspiration and support, even during challenging times.

The Ooni of Ife commended President Mahama for his leadership and impact on the Ghanaian economy, describing it as unprecedented.