A respected traditional leader in Ibadan, Mogaji Nurudeen Akinade, has called for renewed commitment to the preservation and promotion of Yoruba and African cultural heritage, stressing that cultural identity remains a defining force for societal dignity and global relevance.
Akinade, a lecturer at the Abiola Ajimobi First Technical University (Tech-U), Ibadan made this call while speaking at the Cultural Day event organised as part of the 2026 Law Students Association Week of Lead City University, held at the institution’s conference hall on Thursday.
Addressing students and academics, the Ibadan Mogaji emphasised that culture is not merely ceremonial but foundational to identity, noting that “the beauty of culture defines what and who you are.”
He urged young legal minds and scholars to take deliberate steps toward sustaining indigenous traditions in both professional and social spaces.
According to him, respect for culture must transcend rhetoric and be reflected in everyday conduct, including within formal institutions.
“Even in the law courts, we respect the beauty of our culture. In laboratories and academic environments, we must continue to do the same,” he said.
Akinade challenged the dominance of Western cultural norms, particularly in areas such as dress and professional expression, questioning why African societies have not sufficiently developed systems rooted in their own traditions.
He called for intellectual leadership from legal practitioners and academics in shaping a distinctly African framework that aligns with global standards while preserving local identity.
“Is it not possible for us to define our own systems in an African way? Where is the foundation of our dress and cultural expressions?” he queried, urging a conscious return to indigenous values.
He added that embracing African culture does not equate to rejecting modernity, but rather enriching it with authenticity and historical depth.
The varsity lecturer specifically charged law students to become advocates of cultural renaissance, noting that the legal profession occupies a strategic position in shaping societal norms and institutional values.
Earlier in her remarks, the Acting Dean of the Faculty of Law, Associate Professor Nike Adelakun, congratulated the students on the successful hosting of their 2026 annual week.
She underscored the importance of academic excellence and discipline, urging students to remain focused on their studies while contributing meaningfully to societal development.
Adelakun encouraged the students to rededicate themselves to learning, describing education as a vital tool for leadership and transformation in a rapidly evolving global environment.
Also speaking, the Law students’ association president, Akeju Ayoola Samuel appreciated the institution’s commitment to moral values, while commending their lecturers for their efforts in promoting quality education and teaching in the faculty.
The Cultural Day formed part of a weeklong programme designed to celebrate intellectual engagement, cultural awareness, and community building among law students at the university.
Participants were treated to displays of traditional attire, music and discussions aimed at reinforcing the relevance of African heritage in contemporary society.
The event concluded with a renewed call for a cultural rebirth anchored on pride, scholarship and intentional preservation; positioning Yoruba and African traditions not as relics of the past, but as dynamic assets for the future.
