Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has emphasized the importance of preserving African cultural heritage, stressing that it must not be allowed to fade away.
Speaking in Abeokuta, Ogun State, on Sunday, Obasanjo emphasized the need to safeguard Yoruba culture, which he described as “authentic.”
The former president stated this while speaking at the 50th birthday celebration of renowned female talking drummer Olamuyiwa Aralola, popularly known as Ara, at the Green Legacy Hotel and Resort within the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL).
Explaining the significance of the event, Obasanjo said his decision to celebrate Ara was intentional, as she has made remarkable contributions to preserving Yoruba cultural heritage, particularly through the talking drum—a skill traditionally seen as exclusive to men.
“For whatever reason, we must preserve our culture. Ara is a woman of culture, she is our cultural ambassador. She has lifted our culture and broken the taboo surrounding what was formerly believed to be exclusively for men. She has not only excelled in this craft but is also mentoring young people to continue her legacy,” Obasanjo said.
Reflecting on societal changes, Obasanjo noted: “When I was growing up, there were two things you couldn’t imagine a woman doing: climbing a palm tree or playing the talking drum. Ara has broken that taboo and done so exceptionally well.”
He encouraged excellence in all endeavors, citing how perceptions around certain activities have evolved over time. “Before now, parents didn’t want their children playing football, but today, they are eager for their kids to pursue it. Whatever you find your hands doing, do it well. If you invite me to celebrate with you, I will come—whether you are a dancer or a footballer. The key is to do it well.”
Obasanjo also expressed concern over the gradual loss of cultural identity. “We must not joke with our culture. Our language, food, dress, and other aspects of our heritage are being relegated. These are things that are authentic. Yoruba is not vernacular,” he asserted.
While emphasizing his commitment to Christianity, Obasanjo stressed the need to honor cultural traditions. “I am a Christian. I attended two church services today, but that doesn’t mean I should forget my culture. Whoever says Ifa is nothing, I will say that person is a big fool. Before Christianity and Islam, we had Ifa Orunmila, meaning, ‘It is Heaven that knows who will be saved.’”
In her response, Ara expressed gratitude to Obasanjo for the recognition. She recounted how she began playing the talking drum at the age of 10 in her father’s palace in Ondo and called on parents to actively work to preserve cultural heritage.
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