“A Son Who Serves Humanity Has Been Recognised” — Idah Celebrates Prince Olatunji Olusoji as Ene-Umola Ata-Igala
Idah witnessed a historic cultural celebration as the Attah Igala honoured Kogi-born philanthropist Prince Olatunji Olusoji with the Ene-Umola Ata-Igala title, recognising his humanitarian service and commitment to community development.
The ancient city of Idah, the traditional headquarters of the Igala Kingdom, stood still on Sunday as prominent personalities, traditional rulers, political leaders, and community members gathered to witness the conferment of the prestigious Ene-Umola Ata-Igala title on Kogi-born philanthropist, Prince Olatunji Olusoji.
The title, which translates to “Companion and Partner of the Attah”, was bestowed on Prince Olusoji by the Attah Igala, His Majesty Alhaji Matthew Opaluwa Oguche Akpa, in recognition of his humanitarian contributions, commitment to service, and efforts toward improving the lives of people across communities.
The colourful ceremony attracted dignitaries from across Kogi State and beyond, with the city of Idah filled with celebrations as the philanthropist was officially welcomed as a trusted partner of the Igala traditional institution.
Speaking during the ceremony, the Attah Igala described the honour as a recognition of Prince Olusoji’s dedication to humanity and his consistent efforts in supporting communities through various interventions.
The monarch noted that he had received reports of the recipient’s philanthropic activities and contributions to society, adding that the recognition was intended to encourage him to continue his service to the people.
“This honour is in recognition of his commitment to humanity and his dedication to making positive impacts in the lives of people,” the Attah Igala stated.
Representing the Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, at the event, the Deputy Governor, Comrade Joel Salifu, described the title as a symbol of trust, partnership, goodwill and commitment to service.
Governor Ododo, represented by His Deputy, Comrade Joel Salifu congratulated Prince Olusoji, describing the honour as well deserved and a reflection of the importance of unity, collaboration and shared responsibility in building a stronger Kogi State.
He noted that the recognition further supports the administration’s One Kogi State agenda, stressing that the diversity of the state remains a strength that should promote unity rather than division.
“The collective identity of Kogi State is greater than our differences. What unites us remains stronger than what separates us,” the Governor said.
The Obaro of Kabba, His Royal Majesty Oba Solomon Owoniyi, on behalf of the Okun people, appreciated the Attah Igala and the Igala Kingdom for honouring one of their sons.
He described the recognition as a demonstration of the strong bond of unity among the people of Kogi State.
In his response, Prince Olatunji Olusoji expressed appreciation to the Attah Igala for finding him worthy of the prestigious traditional title.
He pledged to remain a worthy ambassador of the Igala Kingdom, assuring the people that the recognition would further strengthen his commitment to supporting communities and extending his humanitarian efforts across the state.
Prince Olusoji stated that his new role comes with greater responsibility, promising to continue providing support whenever called upon and ensuring that more communities benefit from his philanthropic initiatives.
He also called on wealthy individuals and stakeholders across Kogi State to support government efforts through impactful projects that directly improve the lives of citizens.
According to him, government alone cannot meet every need of the people, stressing that collective contributions from individuals and organisations remain essential for sustainable development.
Prince Olusoji further encouraged citizens to continue supporting both the state and federal governments to enable the delivery of more dividends of democracy.
The ceremony was attended by top government officials, lawmakers, commissioners, local government leaders, traditional rulers, youths, women groups and supporters of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Among the traditional rulers present were the Olujumu of Ijumu Kingdom, Oba Williams Olusegun Ayeni, and the Elulu of Mopa, Oba Muyiwa Ibeun, alongside other respected royal fathers.
The conferment of the Ene-Umola Ata-Igala title has been widely described as a recognition of Prince Olatunji Olusoji’s growing influence in humanitarian service and his commitment to building bridges across communities in Kogi State.