The Nigerian Institute of Food Science and Technology (NIFST) on Wednesday, 5th February 2025, inaugurated the Ooni of Ife (HRH Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi Ojaja II) as a member of the board of trustees of the noble institute.

The investiture, which took place in Lagos, saw the Imperial ruler join esteemed trustees like Mama Iyabode Ladipo and Major General Muritala Nyako (rtd). The event was filled with excitement as the Ooni was honored to become part of the largest gathering of food professionals in West Africa.

The President of NIFST, Prince Dr. Bola Osinowo, conducted the investiture, with past presidents, Fellows, and members of the institute present to witness the special occasion.

During the ceremony, Mr. Olusola R.Olawale delivered a heartfelt speech highlighting the significance of this moment for both NIFST and the entire Nigerian food industry. He shared how food is not just sustenance but the foundation of life, culture, and community. Drawing from his own experience studying Nigerian food habits in 1981, he emphasized the importance of agriculture, processing, and technology in ensuring food security and reducing waste.

He noted that food is a powerful force that unites people, carries history, and drives economic growth. He stressed the need for innovation in food technology, improved storage methods, and biofortification to tackle food insecurity.

“With His Majesty as a trustee,” Mr. Olusola R. Olawale stated, “we gain an advocate for sustainable agriculture, improved food processing, and better nutrition education. Now more than ever, we must invest in homegrown solutions to reduce our dependency on food imports and build a stronger, more resilient food industry.”

In response to the investiture, HRM was thrilled at being honoured as the newest trustee and pledged his unwavering support to the institute as he promised to join hands and forces to achieve the vision of the institute in ensuring food security and sufficiency nationwide.

We wish the Ooni an impactful and fulfilling time as he comes on board as trustee for our Institute.

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  Traditional rulers at the event celebrating with HRM Ooni of Ife at the Investiture.

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  NIFST President Dr Bola Osinowo presenting the certificate of induction to the Ooni.

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  Guests at the Event.

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  NIFST President with the Representative of the Governor of Lagos State.

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  NIFST First female President (Mrs Dolapo Coker) with oldest board of trustee (Mama Oloye Iyabode Ladipo) at the investiture.

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  NIFST First female President (Mrs Dolapo Coker) with oldest board of trustee (Mama Oloye Iyabode Ladipo) at the investiture.

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  Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi (Ooni of Ife) pledges his unrelenting support for the elders and Institute at large.

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  Ooni of Ife giving his acceptance speech after his investiture

OGUNJI, A.O and Okeke, Ifeoma Vivian