By Yemisi Suleiman

In a bold statement on indigenous enterprise and economic reinvention, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi recently unveiled the expansive Ojaja Mall & Resort in Lagos, positioning it as a flagship model for African-owned, future-facing commercial hubs.
Set in Ogombo, along the Lekki-Epe corridor, the development goes beyond a conventional retail space, emerging as a multi-dimensional lifestyle destination where fashion, entertainment, hospitality, and innovation intersect. With nearly 300 retail outlets, the mall hosts a curated mix of fashion boutiques, beauty brands, jewellery stores, tech hubs, and everyday essentials—catering to Lagos’ style-conscious and culturally attuned audience.

At its core, Ojaja Mall reflects the monarch’s long-standing advocacy for economic nationalism and local production. The retail ecosystem actively promotes “Made in Nigeria” goods, offering premium visibility to homegrown designers, beauty entrepreneurs, and manufacturers who often struggle with access to high-traffic commercial platforms. From fashion and lifestyle brands to locally assembled electronics, the mall serves as both marketplace and movement, championing Nigerian creativity and industry.
The entertainment offering further strengthens its cultural footprint. Ojaja Cinemas, with its state-of-the-art screening halls and VIP theatre, taps into Nigeria’s thriving film industry, while the arcade and kiddies park create a family-friendly social hub. The Ojaja Lounge and resort-style hospitality arm elevate the experience, positioning the complex as a destination for both leisure and high-end lifestyle engagement.

Speaking on the essence of the magnificent project, Managing Director Princess Adebimpe Ogunwusi described the project as a transformative vision for Africa’s economic future.
“A prosperous Africa driven by African-owned institutions that create shared wealth and stand the test of time,” she said, outlining the mall’s guiding philosophy.
She added: “Today, we are proud to announce that Ojaja Mall is fully active and operational. We are not just open; we are running at full capacity to serve the public. This is a space designed for commerce, but also for community, culture and connection.”

Beyond retail, the development integrates an AI centre, arcade, cinema, lounge, kiddies park, and the Ojaja Suites, offering a blend of standard rooms, maisonettes, and deluxe apartments fitted with locally made furnishings. This deliberate sourcing underscores a wider commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s value chain across multiple sectors—from manufacturing to creative industries.

Princess Ogunwusi emphasised that the project’s ambition extends beyond commerce.
“We are committed to delivering world-class service and ensuring Ojaja Mall remains a hub of industrialisation and a landmark of excellence in Nigeria,” she noted.
With its scale, vision, and cultural grounding, Ojaja Mall & Resort signals a shift in how traditional leadership can intersect with modern enterprise. By leveraging heritage as a catalyst for innovation, the Ooni of Ife is not only redefining luxury retail but also setting a precedent for how African institutions can drive sustainable economic growth.