By John Dike, Osogbo
Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja II, has hailed the Founder and Executive Chairman of Oriental Energy Resources Limited, Alhaji (Dr.) Muhammadu Indimi, describing him as an exceptional philanthropist whose legacy extends far beyond business success and personal wealth.
He also unveiled plans to establish the Indimi School of Business, a proposed institution aimed at preserving and promoting the business philosophy, entrepreneurial journey and philanthropic ideals of the renowned businessman.
A statement issued on Tuesday by the Senior Media Officer at the Ooni’s Palace, Sodiq Lawal, on behalf of the Director of Media and Public Affairs, Otunba Moses Olafare, said the Ooni made the announcement while receiving Indimi and his delegation at the palace in Ile-Ife.
The Ooni, who is the Permanent Chairman of the Southern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council (SNTRC) and Co-Chairman of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria (NCTRN), described Indimi as a man whose greatest achievement lies not in his wealth but in the countless lives he has positively impacted through education, philanthropy and humanitarian service.
According to the monarch, Indimi’s generosity and unwavering commitment to humanity have earned him a place among the world’s most respected philanthropists.
“Your heart is a heart of gold. You are one of the greatest philanthropists in the world. Your success is not measured by your wealth but by your impact on humanity.
“You have dedicated your life to education and philanthropy. You have touched countless lives, and you are truly worthy of celebration,” the Ooni said.
Speaking further, Oba Ogunwusi disclosed that plans were also underway to confer an honorary doctorate degree on Indimi through Ojaja University in recognition of his outstanding contributions to national development.
He explained that the proposed Indimi School of Business would document and teach the business icon’s entrepreneurial journey, leadership principles and philanthropic values for the benefit of future generations.
“We intend to establish the Indimi School of Business where your history, how you started and the journey you have undertaken will be documented and taught. People from different parts of the world will come to study your experiences and learn from your achievements.
“We are also exploring collaboration with sister institutions, including Kashim Ibrahim University, Obafemi Awolowo University and the University of Nigeria, Nsukka,” the monarch stated.
The Ooni added that the institution would promote entrepreneurship, leadership, business development and philanthropy while inspiring young Nigerians to pursue excellence through hard work and service to humanity.
He also announced plans to establish a Hall of Fame in honour of Indimi to preserve his life story, from his humble beginnings to his rise as one of Nigeria’s foremost entrepreneurs and philanthropists.
“We will establish a Hall of Fame for you. Everything from your childhood to your present accomplishments will be documented because your story deserves to be preserved for generations yet unborn,” he said.
The monarch also felicitated Indimi ahead of his birthday, wishing him continued good health and many more years of impactful service to humanity.
Responding, Alhaji Muhammadu Indimi thanked the Ooni for the warm reception accorded him and his delegation.
He commended the monarch’s commitment to preserving Yoruba culture and heritage, describing the cultural displays at the palace as memorable and inspiring.
Indimi also expressed his desire to strengthen ties between the Palace of the Ooni of Ife and the traditional institution in Borno State, stressing the need for greater cultural unity and collaboration among Nigeria’s traditional rulers.
He revealed plans to return to Ile-Ife in the company of the Shehu of Borno, noting that the visit would further deepen the relationship between the two revered traditional institutions.
