That the Ojaja Mall, owned by the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, may perhaps be the largest mall in Nigeria, is not farfetched, what with
That the Ojaja Mall, owned by the Ooni of Ife,
Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, may perhaps be the largest mall in Nigeria, is not farfetched, what with a staggering number of shops, 295 in total, offering products and services of all kinds under one roof – nothing could be farther from this truth.
The landmark commercial development reflects visionary leadership, economic foresight, and cultural pride. The mall is not built on symbolism alone; it is built on strategy, scale, and a deeply intentional vision of economic relevance.
The name ‘Ojaja’ itself ties the project to royal heritage, blending commerce with tradition. Besides being tied to the Ooni himself, ‘Ojaja’ does more than signify lineage, it anchors commerce in culture. Every enterprise within the mall feels like an extension of that philosophy: that tradition and progress are not opposing forces, but powerful allies when properly aligned.
Indoor pool
Strategically located near the newly commissioned
Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road, the mall which was officially commissioned in November 2025 can be aptly described as a symbol of wealth creation at a staggering scale. It promotes enterprise and employment as well as serving as a model for how wealthy African entrepreneurs can drive economic growth. It is expansive without being overwhelming and grand without losing its sense of purpose. It has already begun to settle into its role as a commercial and lifestyle hub, drawing in businesses, families, and curious observers alike.
What truly distinguishes Ojaja Mall is not just its size or location, it is the ecosystem it sustains. Unlike most malls in the country, the Ojaja Mall has a strict policy of only stocking Made-in-Nigeria products, from groceries to electronics to fashion items, cosmetics etc all in a bid to promote economic nationalism and local industry. It is the kind of patriotism that moves beyond speeches and into systems.
Then there is the cinema complex designed to host hundreds at a time, while an intimate VIP theatre offers a more exclusive experience.
Then there is Ojaja Cola and Orange, perhaps one of the most intriguing creations of the Ooni. A homegrown beverage that signals something important: that Nigerian brands can compete, not just locally, but with ambition that stretches far beyond.
Beyond the retail and recreation lies hospitality – the Ojaja Suites which offers a level of refinement – from its maisonettes to its standard rooms, all thoughtfully finished with locally sourced furnishings.
The Ojaja Mall stands as more than an architectural achievement. It is an economic engine, quietly impacting lives, supporting livelihoods, and setting a precedent that feels both urgent and necessary. And who better to run this multi-billion-naira vision that Princess Adebimpe Ogunwusi, the younger sister of the visioner who obviously understands the vision and ensures that the Ojaja Mall vision outlives the visioner.
Princess Adebimpe Ogunwusi (First left)
In the end, what the Ooni of Ife has built is not just a mall but a statement, a deeply intentional one, that leadership is not only about heritage preserved, but about futures created. It is leadership built in bricks and vision. A powerful example of how influence, when paired with investment, can create lasting impact.
