Preserve culture, strengthen unity, Gani Adams, Yoruba monarchs urge diaspora Nigerians

Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams, alongside two prominent Yoruba monarchs, the Oloro of Oro Kingdom, Oba Joel Olaniyi Oyatoye, and the Olora of Ora Kingdom, Oba Rilwan Yekini, have urged Nigerians in the diaspora to remain united and preserve their cultural heritage as a way of sustaining their identity across generations.

The traditional leaders made the call at the 10th anniversary celebration of the Oodua Progressive Union (OPU) Canada, where they stressed that promoting Yoruba language, traditions and values remains essential to strengthening the bond among Yoruba people worldwide.

Delivering the keynote address on behalf of Iba Adams, the Secretary-General Worldwide of OPU, Alhaji Luqman Adedire, described the anniversary as more than a celebration of time, saying it symbolised the resilience, unity and unwavering commitment of Yoruba sons and daughters in Canada.

Adams, who is the Global Convener of OPU, said the promotion of unity among Yoruba people across the world remains the cornerstone of the organisation’s mission.

According to him, unity is the foundation of Yoruba culture, traditions and values, serving as a bond that transcends continents and generations.

“In a world often divided, OPU Canada stands as a beacon of solidarity, fostering a vibrant community where every member feels valued and heard.

“Over the past decade, OPU Canada has made remarkable progress. The union’s initiatives have strengthened the Yoruba community’s bonds in Canada and enhanced the visibility of Yoruba culture on the global stage,” he said.

Adams commended the union’s membership mobilisation efforts, noting that they had successfully brought together Yoruba professionals and families from diverse backgrounds, thereby strengthening the organisation and making it more representative.

He also praised members for their active participation in cultural, educational and social programmes, describing their commitment as a reflection of OPU’s core values.

A major highlight of the anniversary was the recognition of the OPU Canada Yoruba School, which Adams described as a critical institution for preserving the Yoruba language and cultural heritage among younger generations born or raised in the Diaspora.