Culture

NICO Emphasizes Role of Indigenous Languages in National Identity

Published

5 months ago

August 30, 2024

The National Institute for Cultural Orientation (NICO) has stressed the significance of indigenous languages in Nigeria’s development, citing them as essential tools for national identity.

Executive Secretary/CEO Otunba Biodun Ajiboye made this assertion at the closing ceremony of NICO’s August edition of the Nigerian Indigenous Language Programme (NILP) in Abuja.

Ajiboye emphasized that language is a vital vehicle for transmitting culture and should be taken seriously, particularly by parents ensuring their children learn and speak their indigenous languages.

The NILP provides a platform for learning Nigerian basic languages, focusing on major languages such as Hausa, Yoruba, and Igbo.

Ajiboye noted that language is crucial for national identity, interaction, business transactions, and daily communication. The institute aims to protect and propagate culture, with language being a key element, stressing that failure to teach children their native language is a failure to provide identity.

Participants praised NICO for the opportunity to learn languages other than their mother tongue.

Mr. Martins Mbaji suggested increased publicity to attract more participants, while Mrs. Runke Oluwatimileyin expressed interest in enrolling at NICO’s Academy for Cultural Studies to further learn Nigerian languages and culture.

NICO plans to expand the program next year, making it more comprehensive and beneficial.

Culture

New Alaafin to Begin 21-Day Traditional Rites

Published

2 weeks ago

January 13, 2025

Samson Adeyanju

By Cynthia Abah

Oba Abimbola Owoade, the newly appointed Alaafin of Oyo, will commence a 21-day traditional ceremony marking his ascension to the throne.

Governor Seyi Makinde officially presented him with the staff of office on Monday, following his announcement as the new monarch on Friday.
Oba Owoade succeeds the late Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, who passed away three years ago. The ceremony was attended by the Oyomesi (kingmakers), government officials, and other dignitaries.
After the event, a source confirmed that the new Alaafin has traveled to Oyo town to begin his traditional rites, which are essential for his coronation.

Culture

Substantive Alaafin Emerges

Published

2 weeks ago

January 13, 2025

Samson Adeyanju

By Adenike Lawal

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has officially installed Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade as the 46th Alaafin of Oyo, presenting him with the staff and certificate of office.

The ceremony, held on Monday at the Governor’s Office in Ibadan, was attended by dignitaries, traditional rulers, government officials, and Oyo residents.

Governor Makinde hailed Oba Owoade as a custodian of Oyo’s rich cultural heritage, expressing confidence in his ability to lead with wisdom, integrity, and a commitment to unity.

In his acceptance speech, Oba Owoade pledged to prioritize the kingdom’s development and the welfare of its people.

He succeeds the late Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, who ruled for 50 years.

Culture

Makinde Ends Long Wait, Approves New Alaafin of Oyo

Published

2 weeks ago

January 10, 2025

Samson Adeyanju

By Our Correspondent

Governor Seyi Makinde has officially approved Prince Abimbola Akeem Owoade as the new Alaafin of Oyo, following a series of consultations and divinations by the Oyomesi.

In a statement signed by Prince Dotun Oyelade, the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, it was revealed that this decision puts to rest the ongoing socio-legal disputes after the passing of Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III on April 22, 2022.

Hon. Ademola Ojo, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, called on Oyo State citizens to unite in celebrating the new monarch and support his reign, which is hoped to usher in peace, prosperity, and unity for the Oyo Kingdom.