The eagerly anticipated 2024 Yoruba National Day celebration is set to take place at the prestigious International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo State.
Organised by the Grand Council of Yoruba Youths, the event will commemorate the 85th birthday of esteemed elder statesman and actor, Chief Lere Paimo, popularly known as Eda Onileola.
A significant highlight of the celebration will be a thought-provoking lecture titled “National Unity and Agitation for Self-Determination: The way forward for Nigeria?” to be delivered by the dynamic Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
In recognition of outstanding contributions to society, the prestigious Ori Olokun Odu’a Award will be conferred upon distinguished individuals, including Prof Kayode Adebowale, the vice chancellor of the University of Ibadan, and Alhaji Muideen Bello, a revered Islamic cleric. Other recipients include prominent figures such as Oba Adebayo Akande, Bamidele Samson, and Dr M.O Mustapha, among others.
Addressing the significance of unity and collaboration, Awa Bamiji, President-General of the Grand Council of Yoruba Youths, emphasized the importance of collective efforts for the progress of Yoruba land. The recent approval by the Lagos State House of Assembly to commemorate Yoruba week in the state underscores a pivotal step towards fostering unity and solidarity among Yoruba people.
The week-long celebration promises a rich tapestry of cultural experiences, featuring traditional games like Ayo Olopon, captivating performances of Ijala (hunter’s song), Ekun Iyawo (bridal cry), and an engaging quiz competition known as Ariyanjiyan. Additionally, attendees can look forward to indulging in traditional delicacies, ensuring a vibrant celebration of Yoruba heritage.
The event will be presided over by Arc Bamidele Samson, Chairman of BOVAS Group, with Otunba Jumoke Ogunkeyede (JMK) serving as the vice-chairman. Dignitaries expected to grace the occasion include President Bola Tinubu, First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, South West governors, and Speakers of the South West Houses of Assembly.
The distinguished fathers and mother of the day include esteemed personalities such as Chief Reuben Fasoranti, Prince Tajudeen Olusi, Archbishop Ayo Ladigbolu, and Prof (Mrs) Bolanle Awe, among others. Notable royal fathers of the day include Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, the Ooni of Ife, and Oba Sikiru Adetona, Ogbagba II, the Awujale of Ijebu.
The spiritual essence of the celebration will be upheld by revered spiritual fathers such as Araba Ifayemi Elebuibon, Prof Sabitu Olagoke (JP), and Dr M.O Mustapha, JP (Babasebioba), ensuring a holistic commemoration of Yoruba heritage and values.
