President Bola Tinubu has received high praise from Nobel Laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, for his administration’s commitment to promoting Nigerian culture as a vital component of national identity and global diplomacy.
The commendations were delivered during a media briefing organized by the National Institute for Cultural Orientation (NICO) to announce the upcoming World Orisha Congress (WOOCON). The Ooni, who serves as WOOCON’s Global Patron, expressed appreciation for the President’s efforts in creating a culturally supportive environment and officially recognizing traditional institutions.
“We are grateful that this administration is giving rightful recognition to our culture,” said the Ooni. “Culture is the soul of a people. Without it, we have no identity. President Tinubu is not only elevating our heritage on the global stage but also reconnecting us to our roots.”
Prof. Soyinka echoed the sentiment, describing the President’s support for cultural initiatives as a bold step toward boosting tourism and reinforcing Nigeria’s place in the global cultural landscape. As a WOOCON patron, Soyinka emphasized the importance of spiritual and intellectual engagement in reviving African traditions.
Brazil’s Consul in Lagos, Ambassador Manuel de Lacerda Santos, also highlighted the deep spiritual and cultural ties between Nigeria and Brazil, particularly through shared Yoruba heritage. He noted the consistent cultural exchanges between the two countries, such as the Osun-Osogbo and Sango festivals.
NICO Executive Secretary, Mr. Abiodun Ajiboye, who also serves as Secretary of the WOOCON Board of Trustees, described the congress as a major platform to reposition Nigeria as a premier cultural and tourism hub. He projected that cultural and spiritual tourism could generate over $10 billion annually for the country if properly harnessed.
“WOOCON is more than a congress; it’s a global movement to reclaim African cultural identity,” Ajiboye said, adding that Caribbean nations are also joining the initiative.
Renowned Yoruba scholar, Prof. Wande Abimbola, emphasized the global significance of the Orisha tradition, calling for its preservation and respect across continents.
The full programme of WOOCON’s cultural and intellectual activities will unfold in the coming months, with Nigeria taking center stage in this international cultural revival.
Advertisement
