UI Yoruba Language Centre Hosts Workshop on Revamping Yoruba Cuisine

The University of Ibadan Yoruba Language Centre recently organised a one-day workshop aimed at revamping Yoruba cuisine, highlighting the intersection of food, culture, language, and health.

At the opening ceremony, Professor Olumuyiwa Omobowale, Director of Special Duties, Office of the Vice-Chancellor, commended the Centre for addressing a vital and often overlooked aspect of cultural identity. Speaking on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kayode O. Adebowale, mni, FAS, fspsp, he noted that modern fast foods are gradually replacing traditional delicacies, risking the loss of a key part of Yoruba heritage. He emphasised that revamping local cuisine requires research, documentation, modernisation, linguistic revival, and economic empowerment.

The keynote speaker, Professor Kola Owolabi, pioneer Director of the YLC, highlighted that the Centre’s mandate extends beyond language instruction and teaching material production to fostering interaction between scholars and society. He underscored food as central to human health and cultural identity, noting that traditional foods are woven into local praise poetry and cultural expression. According to him, the workshop’s theme—“Revamping Yoruba Cuisine”—focuses on health, culture, language, and the enjoyment of life, warning that neglecting indigenous foods threatens both cultural preservation and public health.

Dr. C.O. Odoje, Director of the Yoruba Language Centre, in his welcome address, urged Nigerians to embrace local delicacies to combat health risks associated with processed foods. He emphasised that indigenous foods are nutritious, affordable, and accessible, and encouraged participants to advocate for these delicacies beyond the workshop.

The workshop brought together professionals and cultural enthusiasts, including nutritionists, agriculture experts, farmers, market operators, and members of the public. A discussion panel featured: Professor O.T. Adepoju (Department of Human Nutrition and Dietetics), Professor C.A. Akangbe (Department of Library, Archival and Information Studies), Dr. Mojisola F. Oyewole (Department of Agricultural Extension and Rural Development), Dr. Luqman Kiaribee (Department of Linguistics and African Languages, Osun State University), and Alagbe Rasheed Adegbola (Ere Agbe Media).

The initiative highlights the importance of preserving and modernising Yoruba culinary traditions while promoting health, economic empowerment, and cultural continuity.