The Dean of the Archbishop Vining Memorial Cathedral Church (AVMCC), Ikeja, Lagos, The Venerable Emmanuel Kolawole, has warned against the erosion of cultural values and identity in Nigeria while decrying young people’s lack of interest in history.

He gave the warning while addressing the congregation at the Cathedral’s 2026 National Harvest held last Sunday, at Archbishop Vining Memorial Church Cathedral, lkeja. Lagos.

Providing biblical context for the event, the Dean stated that everything done in the Anglican Church is rooted in Scripture. He added, however, that “just because a church practice is not explicitly written in the Bible does not mean it is unbiblical.”

He made reference to Bible passages on Feast of Unleavened Bread, the Feast of Harvest, and the offering of first fruits.

Giving of first fruits, according to him, is both biblical and cultural.

He underscored the importance of names, cultural identity, and history, stating that no nation can prosper if it fails to take these elements seriously.

“Our names define our identity and reflect our faith. That is why, throughout Scripture, whenever God wanted to transform a person’s destiny, He changed their name,” he said.

He also emphasised the importance of historical awareness, warning that any nation lacking a sense of history will eventually collapse.

Citing Israel as an example, Kolawole said: “You may not like what Israel is doing, but you cannot deny that they have a deep sense of history. Israel acts as it does because its people remember where they came from. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated he would fight relentlessly for his people.

The average Israeli is passionate about their culture and protective of their language. Wherever they are in the world, they remain connected and committed to their homeland.”

He explained that the National Harvest serves as an occasion to celebrate history and culture.
Kolawole said: “Unfortunately, many of our children no longer speak their indigenous languages or know their history. There is no way they can be passionate about a legacy they do not understand.”

The cleric made reference to the biblical account of Nehemiah, who grieved upon hearing about the fallen state of Jerusalem while in exile.

He noted that Nehemiah sought permission from the king to return and rebuild his homeland.
Kolawole said: “If Nehemiah had lacked a sense of history, he would not have cared about what was happening to his homeland.”

Expressing concern over Nigeria’s declining cultural heritage, the man of God lamented that Nigerians speak English in family meetings, whereas nations like the Netherlands would require you learn Dutch before gaining admission into their schools. He urged Nigerians to embrace their roots and be passionate about their homeland.

“Many of us criticise Nigeria today, forgetting that human effort built the nations we now run to,” he said.

The event drew parishioners from diverse ethnic backgrounds across the country.

Among the people who came for thanksgiving was the Vice Chancellor of the Lagos State University (LASU), Ojo, Prof Ayodeji Badejo.

Kolawole commended her for starting her tenure as VC on a thanksgiving note.

He counselled her to be wary of sycophants and be focused on what will glorify God and humanity in the university.

“Be a good ambassador of Christ and administer the university with the fear of God. Don’t let anybody come between you and your God,” he said.

The Governor of Osun State was the Chief Guest of Honour and Chief Flag bearer at the occasion. He was represented by his Special Adviser on Intergovernmental Relations, Olubi Adejobi.