LASU Champions Yoruba Heritage with 2024 Yoruba Week, Advocates Language Preservation for National Development

Lagos State University (LASU) celebrated Yoruba Week 2024 with a vibrant public lecture on Tuesday, October 29, aimed at promoting the preservation of Yoruba language and culture as a cornerstone of national development. The event, themed "Preservation of Yoruba Language and Cultural Heritage for National Development," drew attendees from academia, government, and traditional institutions to discuss strategies for sustaining Yoruba heritage in an era of globalisation.

In his welcome address, Prof. Ayo Ayodele, Dean of the Faculty of Arts, praised the Centre for Yoruba Studies and its director, Prof. Ahmed Adesanya, for their dedication to cultural preservation. Prof. Ayodele highlighted the importance of language as a fundamental part of identity and warned that neglecting indigenous languages weakens cultural roots for future generations.

Prof. Ahmed Adesanya, in his address delivered in Yoruba, called on parents to pass the language to their children to prevent it from fading. He reminded attendees that Yoruba embodies not just communication but the essence of identity and legacy.

Representing the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ibiyemi Ibilola Olatunji-Bello, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Olufunso Omobitan, formally inaugurated the lecture, noting the theme's relevance to national unity. Prof. Olatunji-Bello expressed concern over the declining emphasis on Yoruba studies within Nigeria, noting that more universities in the U.S. now offer Yoruba courses than those in Nigeria. She urged collective efforts from stakeholders to promote Yoruba language programmes, inspired by LASU’s Centre for Yoruba Studies, established with Lagos State Government’s support.

Royal insights were shared by Oba Nureni Sikiru Odedina, the Oni Ladaba of Ladaba, who encouraged Yoruba people to take pride in their language and called on traditional rulers to champion its preservation. He stressed that language is a core part of cultural identity, and it is essential to uphold it.

The keynote speaker, Otunba Francis Oluwagbenro Meshioye, OFR, Supreme Head of the Reformed Ogboni Fraternity, addressed the need for educational reforms, sustainable development, and a legal framework to protect Yoruba identity rights. He emphasized practical approaches for teaching Yoruba in schools and consistent language policies as vital for cultural preservation.

The event featured contributions from notable academics, including Prof. Danoye Oguntola-Laguda, Director of the School of Part-Time Studies, and Prof. Ayo Yusuf from the University of Lagos, adding depth to the discussions. Cultural performances by the LASU Cultural Troupe enlivened the celebration, showcasing Yoruba traditions through chants and music.

The program concluded with presentations of appreciation plaques to the Vice-Chancellor, keynote speaker, and Oba Odedina, underscoring LASU’s commitment to Yoruba heritage. Through initiatives like Yoruba Week, LASU continues to be a leading voice for cultural preservation in Nigeria.