The Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, has deepened his commitment to technology, innovation, and youth empowerment with the establishment of the Ojaja Artificial Intelligence (AI) Centre at Ogombo, Ajah, Lagos State.
The newly launched AI hub, located within the Ojaja Mall complex, blends technology-driven retail, cinema, and innovation spaces designed to promote collaboration among young Nigerians and support the growth of indigenous enterprises.
Speaking on Tuesday during a visit by the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria (NCTRN), following its two-day national committee meeting in Lagos, the Ooni described the centre as a convergence point for Nigerian youths to showcase innovations, develop tech-driven ideas, and engage productively.
“This is another project that showcases the strength and creativity of Nigerians. Everything used in constructing and equipping this centre—from materials to technology—is made in Nigeria,” Oba Ogunwusi said.
He emphasized that traditional rulers must go beyond palace affairs to drive youth engagement and contribute to national development.
The Ojaja AI Centre houses one of the largest cinemas in the area, a modern shopping mall displaying over 75,000 made-in-Nigeria products, and innovation spaces tailored for youth collaboration and entrepreneurship.
According to the monarch, Lagos is the seventh state to host an Ojaja innovation hub, and his goal is to replicate the initiative across all 36 states of the federation within the next five years.
“This area has one of the highest concentrations of middle-class Nigerians between 25 and 40 years old. We are creating a space that not only drives commerce but also connects them through technology,” he explained.
Oba Ogunwusi also urged governments at all levels to adopt a 100% made-in-Nigeria policy in public projects to strengthen the local economy.
He called on Nigerian youths to remain self-driven, courageous, and innovative, rather than depend solely on government support, while encouraging traditional rulers to invest in initiatives that build capacity among young people.
“We can’t continue to blame the government. Projects like this show that we can take the initiative. Our AI centre brings together some of the best brains among Nigerian youths,” he added.
The monarch, who commands a following of over 30 million young Nigerians on social media, said the Ojaja AI Centre reflects his ongoing mission to empower young people through innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship.
