Cultural Display Marks Olatunde Badmus’ 80th Birthday, Biography Launch as King Sunny Ade, Others Honour Ooni of Ife

The 80th birthday celebration and biography launch of business mogul Olatunde Badmus drew wide cultural attention after a video surfaced showing prominent personalities paying traditional respects to the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi.

In footage shared by RNC Media, the octogenarian Badmus was seen approaching the monarch’s seat and performing a respectful squat in accordance with Yoruba customs. The Ooni rose to receive him, and both men exchanged pleasantries in a warm interaction.

In a similar gesture, juju music icon King Sunny Ade also bowed and removed his hat before greeting the traditional ruler. The monarch assisted him as he rose, before the two engaged briefly in conversation.

The exchanges have since generated conversations online, with many Nigerians describing the moments as a reflection of enduring cultural values surrounding respect for traditional authority, age, and accomplishment. Others also noted the reciprocal warmth displayed by the Ooni during the interactions.

The event further featured the public presentation of Badmus’ biography titled Man of Many Frontiers, commemorating his decades-long career in business and public life.