Obasanjo Advocates for Preservation of Africa’s Cultural Heritage at 50th Birthday Celebration
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has reiterated the importance of safeguarding Africa’s rich cultural heritage, emphasizing that it represents an authentic identity that should be cherished and preserved. Speaking at a luncheon in honor of renowned female drummer, Aralola Olamuyiwa (known as Ara), who turned 50, Obasanjo lamented the ongoing erosion of African beliefs and values under the influence of Western culture.
“I am a Christian; I have been to two churches today, but whoever says Ifa Orunmila is nothing must be a bloody fool,” Obasanjo stated, passionately defending the ancient African tradition. He pointed out that Orunmila, a deity associated with the Yoruba religion, predates both Christianity and Islam, and should be recognized as a part of Africa’s rich heritage.
Obasanjo voiced concern over the diminishing appreciation for African culture, noting that elements such as language, food, and dress were being sidelined in favor of Western ways. He remarked, “Culture is the totality of who we are. Unfortunately, we have relegated some of our culture to the background. Our food, our language, our dress—these are our identity, and we must learn to celebrate what belongs to us.”
The former President also highlighted the importance of preserving indigenous languages, emphasizing that “Yoruba is not vernacular; Yoruba is Yoruba,” urging people to take pride in their cultural heritage.
At the luncheon, held at the Green Legacy of the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library in Abeokuta, Obasanjo celebrated Ara for her contributions to preserving African culture. Ara, a renowned talking drummer from Ondo State, has broken cultural taboos and become a global ambassador for African music. Obasanjo recalled that, when he was growing up, it was unheard of for a woman to climb a palm tree or to play the drums. However, Ara’s determination and dedication have made her one of the world’s foremost drummers.
“While growing up, there were two things you would never see a woman doing. A woman would never be seen climbing a palm tree, and you would also not see a woman drummer. But Ara, with her tenacity and focus, has broken this taboo,” Obasanjo said. He praised her for helping sustain the cultural heritage of the Yoruba people and encouraged her to continue her important work.
Obasanjo also used Ara’s success as an example for other young people, urging them to excel in whatever path they choose: “Whatever good your hands find to do, do it well and I will celebrate you. The lesson here is that nothing is unimportant in every area of human endeavors.”
In her remarks, Ara expressed deep gratitude to the former President for the recognition, calling it a gesture she would cherish forever. Reflecting on her own journey, Ara shared how she never thought she would live to see her 50th birthday, having recently battled a life-threatening illness. She dedicated the celebration to God, who she credited with preserving her life and supporting her rise to international fame despite the challenges she has faced.
The event served as both a celebration of Ara’s remarkable achievements and a powerful call to honor and protect Africa’s cultural traditions.
