Oluwo Alabi Adewale Atinukola Elevated to Araba Ifá in Nigeria

São Paulo, October 2024 — Oluwo Alabi Adewale Atinukola, widely known as the ObaOrisa of São Paulo, has achieved a major milestone in his spiritual journey, recently attaining the prestigious title of Araba Ifá in Nigeria. This title, which represents the highest rank among Ifá practitioners, marks a significant recognition of his dedication to the Ifá spiritual tradition.

During his visit to Oyo, Nigeria, Oluwo Alabi underwent the necessary rites and initiations to be formally ordained as Araba Ifá. This honor is bestowed upon those who have shown deep knowledge, commitment, and mastery in the practice of Ifá, the ancient Yoruba system of divination and spirituality. His ordination connects him with a long line of distinguished Ifá priests and solidifies his role as a spiritual leader not only in Brazil but also in the global Ifá community.

In addition to being elevated to the rank of Araba Ifá, Oluwo Alabi also received the title of Alaga during his recent stay in Nigeria. The title of Alaga further underscores his leadership within the Ifá tradition, highlighting his capacity to guide and influence both practitioners and followers of Ifá.

Oluwo Alabi, who has long served as the ObaOrisa—a prominent spiritual leader of the Orisha tradition in São Paulo—now brings his new status as Araba Ifá to the Brazilian community. This achievement enhances his ability to train new priests (babalawos) and to strengthen the ties between the Yoruba Ifá tradition and its growing presence in Brazil.

As Araba Ifá, Oluwo Alabi Adewale Atinukola continues his work in expanding the practice of Ifá, bridging Nigerian traditions with Brazil, and further fostering the cultural and spiritual exchange between these two nations.