By Dapo Akinrefon
The Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams, the Oloro of Oro Kingdom in Kwara State, Oba Joel Oyatoye, and the Olora of Ora Kingdom, Oba Rilwan Yekini, have called on Nigerians in the Diaspora to prioritise the preservation of their culture as a means of sustaining their identity and promoting unity.
The traditional leaders made the call while addressing members of the Yoruba community during the 10th anniversary celebration of the Oodua Progressive Union (OPU) Canada.
In his keynote address, Iba Adams, who was represented by the Secretary-General Worldwide of OPU, Alhaji Luqman Adedire, urged members of the union to renew their commitment to unity, education and community development.
The Aare Ona Kakanfo, who is also the Global Convener of OPU, described the 10th anniversary as more than a celebration of time, saying it was a testament to the resilience, unity and commitment of Yoruba sons and daughters in Canada.
He stressed that promoting unity among Yoruba people across the world remains central to the mission of the OPU, describing unity as the foundation of Yoruba culture, traditions and values and 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 bonds within the Yoruba community in Canada and enhanced the visibility of Yoruba culture on the global stage,” Adams said.
He commended the union’s membership mobilisation efforts, noting that they had brought together Yoruba people from diverse backgrounds and professions, thereby making the organisation more dynamic and representative.
He also praised members for their active participation in cultural, educational and social programmes, describing it as evidence of their commitment to the ideals of the union.
A major highlight of the celebration was the recognition of the OPU Canada Yoruba School, which Adams described as a critical platform for preserving and promoting the Yoruba language and culture among younger generations.
According to him, language is the soul of every culture, and by teaching Yoruba to children and youths, the union is ensuring that the rich heritage of the Yoruba people continues to thrive in the Diaspora.
“The Yoruba School is more than an educational institution; it is a cultural sanctuary where traditions, values and history are passed down with pride and authenticity,” he said.
Adams encouraged members to continue supporting the Yoruba School, participate actively in OPU North America initiatives and uphold the values that have made OPU Canada a symbol of hope and progress.
“Together, we can ensure that the Yoruba people remain united, proud and prosperous for generations to come,” he added.
Earlier, the National Coordinator of OPU Canada, Prince Olajide Olateru, reflected on the union’s journey over the past decade and expressed gratitude to God for its growth and achievements.
He thanked Iba Gani Adams for providing visionary leadership that has inspired generations and expanded the OPU’s presence to more than 109 countries worldwide.
Olateru described the anniversary as not merely a celebration of years but a tribute to vision, resilience, unity, service and the collective commitment to preserving Yoruba heritage in Canada and beyond.
He recalled how an idea conceived a decade ago had evolved into a vibrant organisation serving as a bridge that connects Yoruba people, supports members and contributes positively to host communities.
He highlighted the union’s achievements, including building lasting friendships, providing mutual support during difficult times, promoting Yoruba culture and traditions, empowering youths and strengthening community engagement.
According to him, the anniversary theme, “OPU Canada at 10: Celebrating a Decade of Progress through Human Development, Security, and Community Advancement,” reflects the union’s commitment not only to cultural preservation but also to broader community development.
Olateru also paid tribute to the founding members and leaders of the organisation, including Chief Keke Adams, Mr. Timothy Adeyanju (Oluomo Ekitikete), Otunba Adewale Adepoju (Baba Oodua Worldwide), Ambassador Shola Agboola and others who laid the foundation of OPU Canada.
He further honoured the memories of the late Madam Olubukola Aina and Madam Odunayo Obasuyi, acknowledging their sacrifices and contributions to the growth of the organisation.
In his remarks, the special guest of honour, the Oloro of Oro Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Oba Joel Olaniyi Oyatoye, described the 10th anniversary of OPU Canada as a powerful reminder of the strength of unity, the importance of cultural preservation and the promise of a brighter future for Yoruba people across the world.
Similarly, the Olora of Ora Kingdom, Oba Rilwan Yekini, congratulated members of OPU Canada on attaining the milestone and commended the union’s investment in human development through the Yoruba School.
“Investing in human development, education and mentorship, particularly through the Yoruba School, which has been offered free for the past four years as I have been informed, is commendable.
“This initiative will continue to help preserve our identity as Yoruba people globally,” he said.
Also speaking, the Baba Oodua Worldwide for OPU, Otunba Adewale Adepoju, urged members to remain united in purpose and continue supporting one another through youth empowerment, cultural preservation and stronger partnerships to position OPU Canada for greater achievements in the years ahead.
He encouraged younger Yoruba generations in the Diaspora to embrace their heritage with pride and prepare themselves to become future leaders and custodians of Yoruba values.
Among dignitaries at the event were the North America OPU Coordinator, Hon. Toyin Alowonle; North America OPU Secretary, Otunba Fadeshewa Kemi Olanrewaju; Baba Oodua Canada, Alhaji Rasak Olayiwola; Iya Oodua Canada, Chief Funmi Olumade; Chairman of the Board of Directors, OPU Canada, Alhaji Saheed Olawoyin; Chairman of the 10th Anniversary Committee, Hon. Olumide Fatunase; and Executive Member, North America OPU, Chief Omotunde Balogun.
Others included the Asoju Oba of Oro Kingdom, Hammed Bello; Aremo Onimushin of Remoland, Chief Obafemi Afuwape; OPU Canada stakeholder and President of EKO Lagosian, Chief Yinka Thanni; Executive Member, North America OPU, Chief Victor Abolarinde; Mr. Modupe Oyinsan; Board Member, Sunday Akinremi; OPU Canada Secretary, Madam Temilola Anuoluwapo; Public Relations Officer, Prince Olasunkanmi Adebayo; Mobilisation Secretary, Segun Awoniyi; and Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors, Madam Ronke Osiyemi.
The post Adams, Yoruba monarchs urge diaspora Nigerians to preserve culture, promote unity appeared first on Vanguard News.