Deborah Hundenu
The Registrar of Crescent University, Abeokuta, Barrister Zakariyya Ajibola, has been recognized for his significant contributions to cultural heritage preservation.
He was awarded the prestigious Patron of the Arts Award at the recently concluded Adire Lens/2nd Solo Photography Exhibition, held at the Cultural Centre in Abeokuta, Nigeria.
The event, which aimed to celebrate and preserve indigenous culture, also honoured three other individuals, including the Ogun State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Motunrayo Adijat Adeleye, who received the Adire Ambassador Award.
Barrister Ajibola, who was unable to attend the event in person, was represented by Mr. Idris Katib, Senior Assistant Registrar of Crescent University.
During the event, panelists and attendees praised the exhibition’s convener, Mr. Mustapha Alogba, for his dedication to showcasing indigenous culture through his photography.
Alogba, a law graduate from Crescent University, was lauded for using his art to promote the rich cultural heritage of the Yoruba people.
Speaking at the panel discussion titled “The Adire Heritage: Pathway to Cultural Preservation and Financial Prosperity,” renowned filmmaker and cinematographer, Dr. Tunde Kelani, emphasised the importance of storytelling through native languages and cultural expressions.
He noted that his work, deeply rooted in Yoruba culture, has garnered international recognition and respect. Kelani encouraged the youth to embrace their heritage, stating, “The language of my cinema is the language of my geographical location, which is Yoruba.”
Cultural icon, Prince Yemisi Shyllon, also contributed to the discussion, advising Adire fabric producers to form cooperatives to better market their products and compete in the global market.
He stressed the importance of niche marketing and segmentation to enhance the visibility and demand for authentic Adire textiles.
Mrs. Yemisi Dawodu, Special Adviser to the Ogun State Governor on Trade, highlighted the state government’s commitment to reviving the indigenous textile industry.
She noted the government’s efforts to promote Adire on an international scale, including advertisements at major airports.
Dawodu also advocated for the inclusion of indigenous textile production in Ogun State school curriculums to ensure the younger generation continues the tradition.
Entrepreneur Bola Yinka-Obebe shared her initiative, ‘SpeakEde,’ which aims to bridge the gap between youth culture and traditional heritage.
She created the concept after realizing her children were not fluent in Yoruba, and she hopes to inspire other parents to prioritize cultural education.
Expressing his gratitude to the participants, Mustapha Alogba reflected on his journey, revealing that his passion for photography and the arts began during his time as a law student at Crescent University.
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