Yorubaland In 200-Years: ‘Time to Invest in Our Cultural Identity – Gov Ayedatiwa immediate call for preservation of Yoruba heritage

June 16, 2025

By Ayinde Adeleke

Ondo State Governor, His Excellency Lucky Ayedatiwa, has emphasized the need to safeguard Yoruba heritage and invest in the education and cultural identity of the youth.

He stressed that it is essential to ensure the survival of Yoruba culture across generations and urged deliberate investment in the youth.

He was represented at the event by Mr Ogunyemi Olumuyiwa, where he delivered a keynote address at the Global Yoruba Youth Conference held on Saturday, June 14, 2024, in Lagos.

The conference was themed “Yorubaland in 200 Years.”

According to the Governor, “It is our collective duty to invest deliberately in their education and cultural identity.”

He expressed concern about the potential erosion of Yoruba values due to foreign influences, asking, “Will our language still echo in our classrooms? Will our culture remain alive in our children? Will our youths emerge as global leaders in technology, governance, and commerce?” He asked.

With this call to action, Gov Ayedatiwa realise the importance of preserving Yoruba heritage for future generations, highlighting the critical role that cultural identity plays in shaping the values, beliefs, and aspirations of the youth.

By investing in Yoruba cultural identity, he emphasized that the Yoruba nation can ensure a brighter future for its young people and safeguard its rich cultural legacy for posterity.

The Governor’s speech the significance of preserving Yoruba heritage and the role of the youth in shaping its future.