Stakeholders in culture and language preservation space have called on Africans, particularly the Yoruba, to celebrate their heritage.
The stakeholders include Professor of Arts and Dance, Prince Tunde Odunlade; Young Artists Art Hub convener, Olaide Turner-Moyet; the Curator of the National Museum and Monument, Alesinloye, Ibadan, Mrs Oriyomi Otuka Pamela, and others.
They made the call during the seventh art competition and inter-schools talent hunt exhibition organised by Turner-Moyet at the National Museum of Unity, Ibadan.
In her remarks, Turner-Moyet said, “our roots are the bedrock of our identity, and it is imperative that we honour our stories. Only then can we inspire the next generation of artists, thinkers, and leaders.”
She noted, “the future of Africa is not a distant dream; it is now. Young talents must seize their future with both hands.”
Speaking on the event’s theme of the event, ‘My African Roots: My Pride’, Turner-Moyet said it stemmed from a vision of bridging creativity with purpose.
“This platform serves as fertile ground where self-awareness intersects with skill-building, where artistic expression meets cultural education, and where the seeds of leadership are sown through imagination and dialogue,” she said.
Turner-Moyet further highlighted the transformative power of the arts in shaping identities and communities, adding, “art is not merely an expression; it is a catalyst for change.”
In his remarks, one of the guest lecturers, Odunlade, called on Nigerians worldwide to unite in preserving the nation’s arts and culture.
Odunlade stated: “We cannot afford to let our rich cultural heritage fade into obscurity. Wisdom resides within our traditions.”
Odunlade, who spoke on Developing Arts, Language and Institutions, cited the Caribbean and the holy land of Mecca as examples of regions leveraging their cultural assets for economic gains.
He urged government to create an enabling environment for talented youths to flourish, asserting, “the youth represents the future. We must provide them with the right education to nurture our nation’s roots, arts, and culture.”
Odunlade also underscored the role of arts education in fostering a deeper appreciation of cultural heritage. Incorporating traditional art forms into the curriculum is vital. This not only preserves our rich history but also empowers students to express their identities confidently. When young people understand and value their culture, they become ambassadors of that heritage, carrying it forward into the future,” Odunlade asserted.
In his remarks, the Oyo State Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Segun Olayiwola, highlighted the abundance of talent in Nigeria, particularly in the state.
Olayiwola, who was represented by Registrar (Exams) of the Ministry, Mr. Johnson Awodeji, urged leaders to harness their potential to ensure that the skills of the youths do not go to waste.
On his part during his lecture, the Director, Medical Social Services, University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, Mr. Olagunju Adelayo, urged parents to closely monitor their children’s educational journeys.
The event ended with the presentation of awards to schools excelling in music, drama, virtual art, mime and dance competitions. Winners were Lead City International School, St. Louis Grammar School, Bodija International College (both Senior and Junior categories), Quiblah International School, Community High School, Iseyin, and Community High School, Samonda, Ibadan.
