…..Urges Cultural Revival, Youth Engagement to Preserve Values

By Precious Oluwole

The Governor of Ondo State, Dr Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has described Chief Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti as a rare symbol of patriotism, courage and integrity, whose life of selfless service has become a guiding light for generations of Nigerians.

The Governor made the remarks on Saturday in Akure during the second edition of the Chief Reuben Fasoranti Public Service Lecture, organised by the University of Ibadan Alumni Association, Ondo State Chapter, in commemoration of the elder statesman’s 99th birthday.

Speaking at the Multi-Purpose Auditorium of the Federal University of Technology, Akure, venue of the event, Governor Aiyedatiwa extolled the virtues of the Afenifere leader, saying his life reflects the very essence of the Yoruba Omoluabi ethos.

“What we are celebrating here today is not just the number. It is not just the years in the life of an icon and one of the brightest lights of our country, Nigeria, but the life in the years and journey of an elder statesman and an exemplary personality who has exemplified service, courage, conviction and devotion to humanity throughout his life”, the Governor said.

The Governor added that it was no surprise that such a public lecture was chosen to mark Chief Fasoranti’s 99th birthday, noting his longstanding contributions to education, culture and leadership in Nigeria.

Reflecting on the theme of the lecture — “Wanted: A Strong and United Yoruba Race as Panacea for Reviving the Vanishing Yoruba Values and Culture” — Governor Aiyedatiwa described it as timely and deeply thought-provoking. He warned against the steady decline of cultural values among the Yoruba people and called for a concerted effort to preserve their heritage.

He said: “We must recognise the significance of our traditions, customs and values in shaping our identity and informing our actions. As a people, we cannot afford to deviate from this noble trajectory.

“We must embark on cultural education by promoting awareness and appreciation of Yoruba culture, history and values among our youth. It is also important to engage in intergenerational dialogue between elders and youth to preserve knowledge and values.

“As a government in Ondo State, we are committed to promoting our cultural heritage, supporting initiatives that preserve and promote Yoruba culture, arts and traditions. We are empowering the youth by providing opportunities for young people to learn, grow and contribute to our cultural revival.

“On behalf of the government and good people of Ondo State, I say happy 99th birthday to Pa Fasoranti! May your life be celebrated the more and your legacy continue to inspire us all.”

Delivering the lecture for the event, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, former Governor of Ogun State, emphasized the urgent need for unity among the Yoruba people to safeguard their cultural heritage and identity.

He called for a renaissance of traditional values through deliberate efforts in education, political engagement, and community mobilisation.

He also paid glowing tribute to Chief Fasoranti for his consistent advocacy for justice, unity, and development of the Yoruba people.

In his welcome address, the Chairman of the University of Ibadan Alumni Association (UIAA), Ondo State Branch, Mr Yinka Akinola, described Chief Fasoranti as an alumnus truly worth celebrating; a man whose life embodies academic excellence, moral strength, and selfless service to society.

The Chief Host of the event, Basorun Seinde Arogbofa, reflected on a time when external influences threatened to erode Yoruba values, saying it was leaders like Fasoranti who stood firm in defence of the culture and identity now being proudly upheld.

Similarly, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Prof Kayode Adebowale, represented by the institution’s Registrar, Mr G.O. Saliu, extended the university’s deep appreciation to the nonagenarian, stressing that every society thrives on the strength of individuals like Fasoranti who embody its ideals and preserve its legacy.

The Chairman of the event, Prof Williams Olu Aderounmu, praised the celebrant for his unwavering commitment to principled leadership and community development, adding that Chief Fasoranti is deserving of a Yoruba global award for his far-reaching contributions to the cultural and political advancement of the Yoruba people.

Also speaking, the Olowo of Owo and Chairman of the Ondo State Council of Traditional Rulers, Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye, noted Chief Fasoranti’s long-standing relationship with the people of Owo, particularly through his close working ties with the late former Governor of Ondo State, Chief Adekunle Ajasin, in whose cabinet he served as Commissioner for Finance. He lauded Pa Fasoranti for helping to preserve the identity of the Yoruba race and urged others to follow in his footsteps and make him proud.

Those in attendance at the event included the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti, Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa, the Deji of Akure, Oba (Dr.) Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, Odundun II, among others.