By John Dike, Osogbo
A high-powered delegation representing the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, has held strategic talks with top officials of the State of California, United States, aimed at fostering collaboration on transportation reform and economic development in Ile-Ife.
The meeting, which took place in Sacramento, was led by the Ooni’s Director of Media and Public Affairs, Moses Olafare, while the California team was headed by Toks Omishakin.
According to a statement issued by the Ooni’s Senior Media Adviser, Sodiq Lawal, the engagement centred on advancing modern transportation systems and expanding economic opportunities in Ile-Ife, widely regarded as the cradle of the Oduduwa race.
A key highlight of the discussion was a proposal to overhaul the city’s transport system.
Presenting the Ooni’s vision, Olafare outlined plans to gradually phase out commercial motorcycle operations, popularly known as okada, and replace them with a safer and more regulated tricycle-based system.
He explained that the initiative is designed to improve urban mobility, enhance safety standards, and establish a more structured and efficient transportation network within the ancient city.
The delegation also requested technical expertise, policy support, and capacity-building assistance from California to drive the proposed reforms.
In his response, Omishakin welcomed the initiative and expressed willingness to sustain engagement on transportation development, noting California’s existing collaborations with Nigeria in infrastructure, environmental management, and urban mobility.
He disclosed that such partnerships have involved federal and state institutions, including engagements with Lagos State, and are geared toward strengthening institutional capacity and development outcomes.
Beyond transportation, discussions also extended to broader economic cooperation.
The Ooni’s delegation sought recognition for Ile-Ife under international partnership frameworks, similar to existing sister-state relationships between California and parts of Nigeria.
They highlighted Ile-Ife’s global cultural significance and its growing interest in international partnerships to boost tourism, infrastructure, and economic growth.
Existing ties with cities in Brazil, including Salvador in Bahia and Rio de Janeiro, were also cited as a foundation for further global collaboration.
Omishakin, who hails from Ile-Ife, reaffirmed California’s commitment to fostering partnerships that promote sustainable development, trade, and cultural exchange, while pledging continued support for initiatives that strengthen ties between both regions.
The engagement marks a significant step in expanding Ile-Ife’s global partnerships, as traditional institutions increasingly explore international collaborations to drive development at the grassroots level.
