As communities around the world mark International Women’s Day, the Ekimogun Association of Canada has paid tribute to Princess Pupupu, the founding monarch of the Ondo Kingdom, while calling for stronger efforts to preserve Yoruba cultural heritage.

The association, led by its Honourable President, O Nelson Akinkugbe, made the call in a statement to commemorate the global celebration of women. The commemoration was spearheaded by Dr. Mary A Bamimore, head of the Research and Data Committee of the association.

Bamimore highlighted the enduring legacy of Princess Pupupu, describing her story as one of resilience, faith, and leadership.

According to her, the monarch’s life began under difficult circumstances in 16th-century Oyo. Princess Pupupu was born a fraternal twin to Alaafin Oluaso and his wife, Olu, at a time when twin births were considered a taboo punishable by death.

Rather than allow the tradition to prevail, the Alaafin chose exile for his wife and the twins.

The journey, Bamimore noted, ultimately led to the founding of the Ondo Kingdom, where Princess Pupupu later became the first Osemawe around 1516 AD.

“Pupupu’s perseverance and courage in the face of adversity continue to inspire, especially as her legacy is commemorated on International Women’s Day—a day synonymous with the celebration of women’s achievements worldwide,” Bamimore said.

She also stressed the importance of preserving cultural heritage, particularly among Africans in the diaspora.

“Heritage is more than a collection of customs, languages, and memories—it is the living history, values, and traditions passed down through generations. It anchors our sense of belonging and identity, much like the roots of a strong maple tree anchoring its trunk. For African communities in the diaspora, heritage provides a vital link to ancestral origins—all of which could offer comfort, direction, and a sense of belonging,” Bamimore said.

She noted that gatherings of Ondo communities in North America, including those organised by the Ekimogun Association of Canada, help transmit cultural values through songs, dances, and storytelling.

Bamimore warned that losing touch with such traditions could weaken the bonds that unite families and communities.

The scholar also emphasised the role of traditional rulers in preserving Yoruba culture.

“The role of monarchs in Yoruba society has always been pivotal. Historically, monarchs served as territorial protectors and spiritual leaders—where their influence shaped the destiny of their people. Today, their responsibilities extend beyond the boundaries of their kingdoms by encompassing the preservation and promotion of cultural heritage, especially in the diaspora,” she said.

She urged monarchs in the Ondo Kingdom and across Yorubaland to take a more proactive role in promoting cultural identity and inspiring pride among younger generations.

According to her, monarchs are well positioned to mobilise support for intergenerational engagement and strengthen connections between diaspora communities and their ancestral roots.

Bamimore also called for greater support for academic disciplines within the arts and humanities, including history, sociology, and anthropology.

“The preservation of stories, the interpretation of social dynamics, and the teaching of ancestral wisdom are all essential to the resilience and advancement of communities. Investing in these fields ensures that the narrative of the Yoruba people—including the Ondo sub-ethnicity—is not only maintained but actively shaped and shared with the world,” she said.

She further urged parents and society to encourage young people to pursue careers in the humanities alongside professions in science, technology, and business.

“We must encourage our children to pursue these careers with the same enthusiasm as we do for the sciences and business,” Bamimore added.

She noted that nurturing historians and cultural scholars would help preserve important historical narratives, including that of Princess Pupupu.

Bamimore called on monarchs, policymakers, parents, and community leaders to work together to protect cultural heritage and ensure that traditions continue to inspire future generations.

“On this International Women’s Day, the tribute to Princess Pupupu resonates far beyond the borders of Ondo Kingdom. It is a call to honour women’s achievements, preserve cultural heritage, and embrace the shared responsibility of building a vibrant, unified future rooted in the wisdom of the past,” she said.