- The colourful ceremony, held on Saturday, August 16, 2025, at the Ayangburen Palace, also saw Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, receive a royal title, drawing dignitaries and traditional rulers from across the country.
The Ayangburen of Ikorodu, Oba Kabir Adewale Shotobi, has honoured African American, Jon James Omobowale Olomo, with the chieftaincy title of Basetọ Ìpadàbọ̀ Sílẹ̀ of Ikorodu.
The colourful ceremony, held on Saturday, August 16, 2025, at the Ayangburen Palace, also saw Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, receive a royal title, drawing dignitaries and traditional rulers from across the country.
Olomo, born in the United States, traced his ancestry to the Mosene lineage of Ikorodu, descendants of Prince Senlu of Imota. His coronation, palace sources noted, is part of ongoing efforts to reconnect the Yoruba diaspora with their roots.
“Ikorodu has always been a welcoming community,” Oba Shotobi said. “Today we are witnessing history as a son of the soil, though born abroad, returns home to take his place among us.”
Olomo, founder of Tribal Tapestry, a DNA-based ancestry platform, described his title as a symbolic bridge between Nigeria and the diaspora.
“This honour is more than personal,” he said. “It is the beginning of a cultural renaissance that brings the diaspora back home. Through Tribal Tapestry, we’re not only helping people find their tribe — we are helping Nigeria reclaim her children.”
Following his installation, Olomo announced plans for a Diaspora Genealogist Training Programme and Annual Homecoming Tours in Ikorodu, aimed at boosting cultural tourism and diaspora engagement.
Leave a Reply