Foundation sets date for 2nd Annual Global Yoruba Heritage Celebration in Osun
The Foundation for the Preservation of Yoruba Culture and Heritage has begun preparations for the 2nd Annual Global Yoruba History and Heritage Celebration, set to take place in Osun State in May 2025.
As part of the initiative, a nine-member planning committee was inaugurated, with a mandate to deliver a vibrant and successful celebration that builds upon the achievements of last year’s event in Abeokuta.
The committee includes notable figures from Yoruba cultural spheres. Oloye Lekan Alabi, the First Cultural Ambassador of the National Museum and Monument in Ile-Ife, will serve as Chairman. Former Vice Chairman of Osogbo Local Government, Alhaji Musibau Adewale Shittu, will act as Secretary, while Dr. Tola Adenekan, a former official, and Otunba Eniola Temitope will contribute as members.
Other esteemed members include Olori Ameenat Matemilola of the Owu Kingdom, Chief Biodun Lasile (Orunto of Owu Kingdom), Mrs. Tolani Sheteolu, Mr. Olamide Lawal, and Miss Eniola Gbolahan, who will serve as Administrative Secretary.
During the inauguration, Foundation Deputy President Dr. Abdulfattah Durojaiye encouraged the committee to surpass the success of the 2024 edition, emphasizing the importance of cultural preservation and community engagement. “I urge all committee members to bring passion and commitment to this year’s celebration,” Durojaiye remarked.
In response, Oloye Lekan Alabi expressed confidence in the committee’s capacity, citing the diverse talents and cultural resources available in the southwestern region as key assets. “With the caliber of people on this committee, and the wealth of cultural icons in the Yoruba community, the 2025 edition promises to be a resounding success,” Alabi stated.
The committee outlined an extensive Advocacy Plan that includes outreach to prominent Yoruba figures, including the event’s host, Osun State Governor Senator Ademola Adeleke, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi, cultural icon Chief Yemi Elebuibon, actress Moremi Abiodun Duro-Ladipo, Chief Peter Fatomilola, and veteran filmmaker Alagba Tunde Kilani.
Additional prominent Yoruba personalities to be visited are former Osun State Governor Prince Dr. Olagunsoye Oyinlola, former Minister of State for Defence Erelu Olusola Obada, and music icons King Sunny Ade (KSA) and King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (K1 De Ultimate).
In the months leading up to the event, a thirteen-week radio program titled Yoruba Niwa will promote Yoruba culture, while cultural competitions among secondary school students across the six southwestern states will also be held to foster youth engagement and cultural pride.
The Foundation anticipates that the 2025 celebration will unite Yoruba communities globally, reaffirming the enduring legacy and vibrancy of Yoruba heritage.
