By Correspondent in Offa.
In its ongoing effort to reposition higher education in Nigeria and integrate 21st-century skills into its curriculum, Summit University, Offa, recently hosted the renowned historian and ewi exponent, Prince Ademola Adelabu. The distinguished guest engaged staff, students, and researchers in an enlightening session that explored the rich history, heritage, and storytelling traditions of Yoruba culture.
In his welcome address, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Abiodun Musa Aibinu, expressed his pleasure at hosting Prince Adelabu, commending him for his invaluable guidance and expertise in storytelling. He emphasized the relevance of storytelling in today’s digital age, noting how mobile phones, gadgets, and social media platforms have transformed storytelling into a dynamic and profitable skill. According to him, storytelling is no longer just a cultural practice but a vital tool for engaging modern audiences and securing livelihoods. This rationale, he explained, underpins the inclusion of History, Heritage, and Storytelling as a compulsory course in the university’s curriculum.
Professor Aibinu also recounted previous efforts to collaborate with Prince Adelabu, including plans to visit his residence in Ibadan. Echoing this sentiment, Mr. Sholola elaborated on a three-day initiative where the university’s Mass Communication team had aimed to document and preserve Yoruba history through multimedia formats and documentaries.
During the interactive session, Prince Adelabu highlighted the cultural and educational significance of storytelling, offering insights into various heritage sites across Yorubaland. He underscored the importance of preserving indigenous knowledge and delved into the contributions of eminent Yoruba scholars such as J.F. Odunjo, including the celebrated work Igbo Olodumare. Prince Adelabu emphasized how Yoruba history and culture, with their deeply rooted values, offer invaluable lessons for contemporary society. He spoke passionately about the Yoruba worldview, which intertwines community, spirituality, and the respect for ancestors. The preservation of this worldview through storytelling not only safeguards traditions but also provides a foundation for cultural pride and unity.
Prince Adelabu further explored the interrelationships among Yoruba towns and the intricate connections between celestial and spiritual elements within Yoruba kingdoms. He captivated the audience with recitations of traditional Yoruba oriki (praise poetry) and esa ede (eulogies), leaving a lasting impression on all in attendance. Through these performances, he illustrated how the Yoruba language itself serves as a vessel for deep philosophical and cultural teachings, fostering a sense of identity and belonging for its people.
The session concluded with an engaging question-and-answer segment, where participants delved deeper into Yoruba history and cultural heritage. Among the outcomes of these discussions was the potential establishment of a memorandum of understanding between Prince Ademola Adelabu and Summit University to formalize future collaborations. The importance of such partnerships, Prince Adelabu noted, lies in their ability to bridge generational gaps and preserve the rich heritage that has shaped Yoruba society for centuries. He emphasized that the education of young people about their history and culture is not just a matter of preserving the past but a critical investment in the future.
The Acting Registrar delivered a heartfelt vote of thanks, bringing the remarkable event to a close. The university community left the event inspired by Prince Adelabu’s wisdom, committed to embracing their cultural heritage, and empowered to use storytelling as a tool for social change and personal growth.
