By John Dike, Osogbo
The Permanent Chairman of the Southern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council (SNTRC), the ancestral and cultural head of the Yoruba nation, Arole Oodua Olofin Adimula and Natural Head of the Yoruba Race worldwide, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja II, has prayed for Nigerians at home and in the diaspora, urging renewed commitment to national unity, as the country enters 2026.
He made this call in a statement by the Director, Media & Public Affairs, Ooni’s Palace, Ile-Ife, Otunba Moses Olafare.
The revered monarch, who also serves as the Permanent Co-Chairman of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria (NCTRN), made the call in his New Year message issued on Thursday, January 1, 2026.
Describing 2026 as a season of national awakening, the Ooni called on Nigerians to strengthen the bonds that unite them, emphasizing dialogue, compassion, tolerance, and brotherhood over division and conflict.
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He reminded citizens that despite its challenges, Nigeria remains one indivisible nation under God, endowed with immense potential and destined for greatness.
The Ooni also appealed to Nigerians in the diaspora to remember the land of their forefathers by bringing home their wisdom, creativity, investments, and expertise, stressing that collective contributions are critical to national development.
According to him, Nigeria must deliberately build an inclusive economy that uplifts all citizens, farmers, artisans, entrepreneurs, professionals, and innovators alike.
The monarch expressed strong optimism that Nigeria would overcome its current challenges, noting that unity remains the foundation for sustainable development and lasting opportunities for future generations.
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He prayed that the New Year would usher in peace, good health, and abundant prosperity for every Nigerian household.
Following is the full text of the royal father’s message:
“As we step into this new year 2026, I extend my royal blessings and heartfelt prayers to all Nigerians at home and across the world, and to friends of our great nation everywhere.
This is a season of awakening of national spirit. May it strengthen the bonds that unite us, deepen our sense of brotherhood and sisterhood, and remind us that we are one people under God, destined for greatness. Let us embrace dialogue over division, compassion over conflict, and unity over every force that seeks to tear us apart.
I call upon all sons and daughters of Nigeria wherever destiny has placed you to remember the land of your fathers. Bring home your wisdom, your creativity, your investments, and your strength. Our nation needs you. Together, we must build an economy that uplifts every Nigerian, from our farmers and artisans to our entrepreneurs and innovators.
Guided by the wisdom of our ancestors and the grace of the Almighty, we shall rise above every challenge. Let 2026 be a year where unity births progress, and where our collective efforts open the doors of opportunity for generations yet unborn.
May this new year usher in peace, divine health, and abundant prosperity for every household.”
