The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, has called for global recognition of the Yoruba knowledge system, describing it as a rich intellectual tradition founded on inquiry, research and the practical application of knowledge to solving human challenges.
The monarch made the call while addressing scholars, cultural leaders, government officials, traditional custodians and members of the Yoruba diaspora at Bahia State University (UNEB) in Brazil.
In a statement issued by his Director of Media and Publicity, Bode Durojaiye, Oba Owoade said the Yoruba civilisation had over the centuries developed a knowledge system that remained relevant to governance, education, economic development and social organisation.
According to him, a proper understanding of Yoruba intellectual traditions would reveal an uncommon commitment to research, investigation and innovation, stressing that the knowledge system deserves greater global attention and scholarly engagement.
“A careful reading of the Yoruba intellectual traditions would reveal the extent and ramifications of the Yoruba system of knowledge, which, if properly studied, would reveal an uncommon commitment to inquiry, research, investigation and the functional application of knowledge in solving human existential problems,” he said.
The Alaafin noted that the Yoruba civilisation had built enduring institutions that continue to shape political, economic, religious and intellectual development, adding that its cultural influence extends beyond Nigeria to Brazil, Cuba and other parts of the Americas.
He urged world leaders to support initiatives aimed at reconnecting Yoruba descendants across the globe with their ancestral roots, saying such efforts would preserve the race’s identity, cultural heritage and intellectual legacy.
The monarch also commended the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) for its plan to proclaim Oyo an international heritage site of exceptional value, describing the move as a significant milestone in preserving Yoruba history and civilisation.
Oba Owoade said the ancient Oyo Empire distinguished itself through a sophisticated system of governance founded on constitutional principles, separation of powers and checks and balances, enabling it to thrive for more than six centuries.
He noted that the empire’s political structure remains one of the most remarkable indigenous systems of administration in Africa and continues to attract the attention of historians, anthropologists and political scientists around the world.
The Alaafin described himself as the custodian of Yoruba history and civilisation, saying the institution of the Alaafin represents the conscience, values and enduring traditions of the Yoruba people.
“I am here as the conscience, symbol and spirit of the Yoruba and the personification of its glorious traditions of excellent public administration, social welfarism and egalitarian social and kinship system,” he said.
He urged governments, academic institutions and cultural organisations to deepen research into Yoruba philosophy, governance and indigenous knowledge, insisting that Africa’s future development must be driven by greater investment in knowledge production, dissemination and innovation.
The event also featured the presentation of a trilingual publication titled Oyo: A City of Yoruba Cultural Heritage, written in Yoruba, English and Portuguese, to the Alaafin in recognition of the historical and cultural significance of the ancient city.
