The Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams, has made a passionate call for the strengthening of Yoruba language teaching in state universities across SouthWest Nigeria, alongside the reintroduction of History as a core subject in Nigerian school curricula.
Speaking at the 2026 Kakanfo Festival in Ifo, Ogun State, yesterday, he stressed that offering Yoruba language courses in universities will significantly help in preserving and promoting the language and cultural heritage.
Beyond preservation, Iba Adams said that the initiative will foster national unity, cultural identity, and cohesion among Nigerians.
He also noted that reintroducing history as a subject will enrich educational curricula by incorporating indigenous perspectives, oral traditions, and historical narratives. He maintained that this will deepen students’ understanding of Nigeria’s diverse past and enhance cultural awareness and research into indigenous knowledge systems.
The Aare Ona Kakanfo emphasised that teaching Yoruba language and History is vital for developing sound educational foundations that reflect the richness of Nigeria’s heritage and contribute to the intellectual growth of the people.
Highlighting the historical significance of the Aare Ona Kakanfo title, established in 1530 by Alaafin Ajagbo of the Old Oyo Empire, Iba Adams recounted the legacies of past Kakanfos, who defended the Yoruba nation through wars and strategic leadership, emphasising that the office is not merely ceremonial but a custodian of Yoruba culture and tradition. He also highlighted the practical strides made under his leadership to promote Yoruba culture and security.
“Through the Olokun Festival Foundation, more than 24 festivals are supported across Yoruba communities, while the Oodua Progressive Union (OPU) operates in over 104 countries to sustain Yoruba culture and unity in the diaspora.