The preservation and revitalisation of Yoruba culture—especially the Yoruba language—has been described as a sacred responsibility that rests heavily on the shoulders of traditional institutions.
This was the central message delivered by His Royal Majesty, Oba Professor Saka Matemilola, the Olowu of Owu Kingdom, during the opening of a conference held at the Kunle Filani Lecture Theatre, Federal College of Education (FCE), Osiele, Abeokuta.
The conference, themed *”Issues in Education, Preservation, Propagation and Revitalisation of Indigenous Languages,”* brought together Yoruba language scholars, cultural enthusiasts, and traditional leaders from various parts of Yorubaland.
It was convened by the Association of Yoruba Language Scholars, known in Yoruba as *Ẹgbẹ Ọmọran Èdè Yorùbá*, a leading body committed to the academic and cultural advancement of the Yoruba language.
In his keynote address, Oba Matemilola emphasized that no society can develop meaningfully without paying serious attention to its culture and language. He stated that royal fathers are the true custodians of indigenous identity and, as such, must take the lead in ensuring that the Yoruba language does not go extinct.
According to the monarch, the role of associations like Ẹgbẹ Ọmọran Èdè Yorùbá in language revival efforts must be recognized, embraced, and supported by the royal institution across Yorubaland.
A highlight of the event was the recognition of outstanding individuals who have contributed to the promotion of Yoruba culture. One of such was the Chairman of Fresh FM Nigeria and renowned gospel music icon, Dr. Yinka Ayefele MON, who was honoured with the title *Olori Agbede-Gbasa-Ga Ọmọ Yorùbá*.
The award celebrates his consistent use of music, media, and broadcasting to project Yoruba identity across the globe.
Dr. Ayefele, who could not be physically present, was ably represented by the General Manager of Fresh 107.9 FM, Abeokuta, Chief Goke Babalola, and the Assistant General Manager, Dr. Adeyinka Adegbite.
In his appreciation speech, Chief Babalola expressed gratitude on behalf of Dr. Ayefele, noting that the recognition would further encourage the Fresh FM family to continue promoting Yoruba culture through responsible broadcasting.
Dr. Adegbite, in his own remarks, reiterated the media’s crucial role in cultural preservation and assured the audience that Fresh FM will continue to serve as a dependable platform for the dissemination of Yoruba language, values, and heritage.
The event concluded with a cultural showcase and a renewed call for all Yoruba sons and daughters—home and abroad—to rise to the challenge of preserving their mother tongue.
It was a moment of pride and reflection, affirming that the revival of Yoruba language and culture is not just a responsibility but a generational assignment.
