Traditional rulers from Epe Division have commended the Aare Onakakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Abiodun Ige Adams, for his continued dedication to the preservation and promotion of Yoruba culture and traditions.
EpeInsights gathered that the recognition was made during the 2025 edition of the Grandmothers’ Festival (Odún Àwon Ìyá Àgbà), held on Tuesday, July 15, at the Recreation Centre in Epe.
The Oloja of Epe Land, His Royal Majesty Oba Kamorudeen Ishola Animashaun, was represented at the event by a delegation of notable traditional rulers.
In attendance were monarchs from Epe and neighboring regions, including Oba Aderibigbe Ganiu Asunmo of Odo-Ayandelu, Oba Ebudola Odedina Sikiru Nureni of Ladaba, Oba Adeleke Akibu Ismaila of Lepia.
Others are; Oba Muftau Adewunmi Olanrewaju of Ogunfayo in Ibeju-Lekki, Oba Maruffdeen Adelani Oluwafunmilade Adeniyi of Odogbawojo and Oba Mudashiru Bilaminu Atanda of Ishaga Boshule in Ogun State.
The royal fathers expressed appreciation for Gani Adams’ cultural advocacy, particularly through his leadership roles as Chief Promoter of the Olokun Festival Foundation, National Coordinator of the Oodua People’s Congress (OPC) and Convener of the Oodua Progressive Union Worldwide.
They praised his consistent efforts in using festivals and public engagements to strengthen the Yoruba identity and cultural consciousness among people both within Nigeria and in the diaspora.
Oba Sikiru Nureni of Ladaba, speaking at the event, reflected on his personal connection to the OPC before ascending the throne.
He emphasized that the Grandmothers’ Festival is one of many cultural initiatives led by Gani Adams aimed at protecting Yoruba heritage.
He acknowledged the significance of hosting the event annually in Epe and commended Adams for choosing the town as a focal point for cultural revival.
Similarly, Oba Adeleke Ismaila of Lepia called on Yoruba people to maintain pride in their cultural heritage.
He cautioned against the loss of traditional values to foreign influence and stressed the importance of instilling cultural appreciation in younger generations.
The monarchs used the occasion to call on Yoruba communities at home and abroad to actively uphold their cultural traditions, urging greater unity in the preservation of shared values and identity.
The Grandmothers’ Festival remains a celebration of ancestral wisdom and a reflection of the enduring importance of women in Yoruba cultural history.
It continues to attract traditional leaders, cultural advocates, and community members who are committed to sustaining indigenous values for future generations.
