By Remmy Diagbare

Until a few months ago, Wuraola Obanor was just a pretty Edo-born girl with her heart set on a good life and a career. Then, providence brought her a charming prince. And today, she has transited from normal to royalty.

She is the wife of the Ooni of Ife, the royal consort, whose seat is set beside the spiritual stool of the Ooni. Allure’s interaction with her was brief. She seemed like a queen of few words, answering in monosyllables.

Olori Wuraola Otiti

How has it been, transiting from normal life to royalty?  

I can’t say it has been normal. If I say it has been (normal), then I would be lying. But, it’s a life of service. There can be no greater service to you and to humanity. Being a queen might seem very glamorous to a lot of people but it is a lot of sacrifice too. Because you have the lives of many people entrusted to you and you have to do good with (that trust). I guess, I am trying and by the grace of God, I will keep trying.

What are the challenges you face, daily, as a queen?

Every day is never the same. Some days are tough, others interesting. There is always something to learn from everyday. For challenge, I will say not having enough sleep has been most challenging.

Plans for women in Ife?

We have a foundation, the Oduduwa Foundation, which we set up to cater for different aspects of the people’s needs. We have skills acquisition for women and small business loans for trading. We also have the ‘Orphan Day’ when we renovate orphanage homes.

I also have the ‘Widows Initiative’ where the foundation trains widows on various skills like soap making, hair dressing and dress making. The whole idea is to give them empowerment so they can be financially independent.

What do you find most fulfilling?

Being able to help people is fulfilling for me. A couple of months ago, I hosted 5,000 children from public schools in Ife. Outside entertaining them, I wanted to add value to their lives because most of these children do not have basic amenities. I have an initiative called the ‘Olori Wuraola Educational Initiative’ which will be organising back-to-school programmes from time to time for the children.

How do you relax?

I like to read. I am not a movie person. I love reading biographies.

Specifically, what book are you reading now?

I read, recently, about an actor – Anthony Hopkins.  I love the story of his life. His values are things that resonate with me.

What’s your beauty routine?

I do not have any special routine but I try to do everything in moderation. In terms of products, I do not have any specific brand I am loyal to. I buy and use as I deem fit.

How do you keep fit? Do you exercise?

No. I haven’t done any exercise for a while. However, I used to love playing tennis but time has been really tight for me so I have not really had time to play.

You seem to wear only white. Is that the call of duty?

I wore white before I became a queen. I guess, it has become more visible because I am now in the public eye.

How will you describe the Nigerian woman?     

The Nigerian woman is very strong and beautiful. We have values. Nigerian women are focussed and smart.