In an effort to preserve and celebrate the Yoruba socio-cultural heritage, HRM Oba Yekini Ademola Abioye II, the Eleyinpo of Ipapo Land, and HRM Oba Dr. Surveyor Alhaji Khalid Oyeniyi, along with their entourage, embarked on a significant journey to Lome, Togo. Their mission? To attend the Awa Omo Yoruba Day 2024 celebration at the University of Lome, a prestigious event aimed at uniting Yoruba communities across West Africa.
Also Read IGBAOTUN: Triumph Over Trials || Olajide Hamzat
On Thursday, October 10, 2024, the monarchs departed from Nigeria for Togo, but not before receiving an incredible royal reception at the Idi Iroko border, the crossing between Nigeria and Benin Republic. This warm and colorful welcome was organized by AYUL (Association of Yoruba University Students) representatives, who greeted the royal fathers with cultural singing, dancing, and a presentation of a beautifully crafted flower vase.
A Royal Welcome: Celebrating Yoruba Tradition at the Border
The AYUL representatives went all out to make this moment special. Yoruba students from the University of Lome had traveled from Togo in a convoy of vehicles just to meet the revered monarchs at the border. Their enthusiasm and respect for Yoruba royalty were on full display as they honored Oba Yekini Ademola Abioye II and Oba Khalid Oyeniyi.
The royal entourage included notable chiefs, such as Chief Jimoh, Baale Sepeteri, who represented the Okere of Saki Land due to unforeseen circumstances. Other distinguished personalities in the monarch’s company were:
- Chief Muraina Orisasona, Teetu of Ipapo Land
- Chief Mrs. Deborah Ojeleye, Otun Iyalaje of Ipapo Land
- Alhaji Mudashiru Babalola
- Mr. Wasiu Yinusa, one of the Eleyinpo Palace aides
Also Read Free Medical Outreach in Ipapo Town, Oyo State: A Community Initiative to Improve Health
Honoring Yoruba Heritage at Awa Omo Yoruba Day 2024
Awa Omo Yoruba Day is a celebration deeply rooted in the Yoruba heritage, promoting cultural education and unity among Yoruba communities in West Africa. The event is highly regarded for fostering the socio-cultural bonds that link Yoruba students and professionals across borders.
At the Idi Iroko border, Oba Yekini Ademola Abioye II, visibly moved by the warm reception, expressed his profound gratitude to the students, praising their dedication to honoring Yoruba traditions. The monarch shared that attending the Jumat service with the students was a highlight of his participation in the Ayul Day 2024 celebrations.
A Unified Yoruba Community: A Step Forward
The monarch’s journey and the celebration of Awa Omo Yoruba Day underscore the importance of cross-border cultural exchange within the Yoruba diaspora. This event serves as a platform for both students and royal dignitaries to come together, reaffirming their commitment to preserving Yoruba customs and fostering stronger connections between Yoruba-speaking communities in Nigeria, Togo, Benin, and beyond.
As Yoruba culture continues to thrive through such events, the journey of Oba Yekini Ademola Abioye II, the Eleyinpo of Ipapo Land, and his entourage exemplifies the significance of leadership and heritage in uniting future generations.
