Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has passionately renewed his call for the preservation of Africa’s cultural heritage, describing it as the continent’s authentic identity that must be fiercely guarded. Speaking on Sunday at a luncheon to celebrate the 50th birthday of renowned female drummer Aralola Olamuyiwa, popularly known as Ara, Obasanjo decried the diminishing recognition of African beliefs and values in the face of Western cultural domination.
“Culture is the totality of who we are,” Obasanjo stated during the event held at the Green Legacy Resort in Abeokuta. “Unfortunately, we have relegated parts of our culture to the background—our food, language, dress, and beliefs—all in the name of embracing Western culture. Yoruba, for example, is not vernacular; it is our language, it is authentic, and we must celebrate what is ours.”
Highlighting the importance of African traditions, Obasanjo defended the Yoruba Ifa Orunmila spiritual practice. “I am a Christian; I have been to two churches today, but whoever says Ifa Orunmila is nothing must be a bloody fool. Orunmila existed long before Christianity or Islam,” he remarked.
The event was organized to honor Ara, who has broken cultural and gender barriers as a female drummer. Traditionally a male-dominated practice, drumming in Yoruba culture seldom saw women participate.
Ara’s global recognition as a talented and iconic drummer has made her a cultural ambassador for Nigeria and Africa at large. “While growing up, you would never see a woman climbing a palm tree or drumming.
Ara, with her determination, has shattered these taboos. She is now known worldwide for her craft, helping to sustain our cultural heritage,” Obasanjo said.
The former president called on other young people to draw inspiration from Ara’s achievement, stressing that any endeavor, no matter how unconventional, can be celebrated. “Whatever good your hands find to do, do it well, and I will celebrate you. Nothing is unimportant when it contributes to humanity,” he emphasized.
In response, Ara expressed deep gratitude, acknowledging Obasanjo’s efforts in recognizing and supporting her work. Reflecting on her journey, Ara revealed how close she had come to losing her life to a serious illness last year.
“I thought I wouldn’t live to see 50, but here I am today, and this honor is more than I could ever have imagined. It motivates me to keep showcasing the beauty of our heritage,” she said.
Obasanjo’s comments also extended to a broader message for African unity in preserving cultural values. “We must stop treating our traditions as inferior to foreign practices.
Our culture—be it food, dress, or beliefs—is part of our identity. We should cherish and protect it,” he said. His speech underscored the urgency of preserving Africa’s cultural identity in the face of globalization.
The former president’s celebration of Ara serves as a reminder of the importance of honoring individuals who champion and preserve cultural traditions.
By elevating such icons, Africa can maintain its rich heritage while inspiring future generations to take pride in their roots and foster a stronger sense of identity across the continent.
