OWERRI, NIGERIA — In a historic celebration blending academic excellence with royal prestige, the Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, was yesterday conferred with an Honorary Doctorate Degree in Management by the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO).

​The prestigious honor was bestowed upon the revered monarch during the institution's 38th Convocation Ceremony, marking a milestone 10th honorary doctorate degree in recognition of his exemplary leadership, cultural diplomacy, and unwavering commitment to national development.

​A Legacy of Impact and Youth Empowerment

​The convocation, which doubled as the final official account of FUTO’s outgoing 8th substantive Vice-Chancellor, Professor Nnenna Oti, celebrated the academic success of 3,358 graduating students alongside the achievements of prominent national icons.

​Showing his characteristic generosity, the Ooni of Ife responded to the honor by launching a ₦20 million endowment fund dedicated to supporting bright, under-privileged, and outstanding FUTO students.

​“I see future ministers, governors, and presidents among these students,” the Ooni stated during his acceptance address. “Nigeria is blessed with talented young people... This endowment fund is intended to help bright and talented students achieve their dreams.”

​The monarch revealed that the inspiration for the endowment fund sparked during a progressive dialogue with billionaire industrialist Aliko Dangote, emphasizing the critical need to create actionable pathways for gifted Nigerian youths.

​Global Promotion of Oduduwa Heritage

​The award reinforces the Ooni’s position as a global ambassador of peace and cultural preservation. Since ascending the throne, his efforts have centered around national cohesion, youth empowerment schemes, and the global promotion of the Oduduwa heritage.

​Alongside the Ooni, other prominent captains of industry—including the Chairperson of Brittania-U Nigeria Limited, Barr. Catherine Uju Ifejika, and the CEO of MRS Holdings Ltd, Alhaji Sayyu Dantata—were also honored with doctorate degrees, collectively donating ₦30 million to the university's research and student development goals.