The Lagos State Council for Arts and Culture (LSCAC), while collaborating with the Association of African Traditional Religion of Nigeria and Overseas (AATREN), hosted a landmark 2026 one-day seminar at Akowanjo Playing Ground, Ajako Bus Stop, Shasha, Alimosho, Lagos.
The seminar themed “The Role of Nigeria in World Culture Development”, served the purpose of a preparatory event, to usher in the forthcoming Isese Day celebration, as the Lagos State Governor annouced Thursday, 20th August to be a public holiday in celebration of Isese day.
Present during the event were many dignitaries, including the royal father of the day, HRM Oba Babatunde Akanni Nasiru Lawal Ogunronbi, the Akinlowo I of Shasha Kingdom, who emphasized the essence of the royal stool as a symbol of African Traditional Religion, clarifying that it is not affiliated with any other faith.
Speaking at the event, the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by the Director of Administration and CEO of LSCAC, Mr. Idowu Johnson, urged members of AATREN to portray African Traditional Religion in a positive and exemplary manner to the public, particularly to younger generations.
He stressed the importance of involving children in such cultural events adding that it is a means of preserving the continuity and coexistence of traditional practices, reaffirming the government’s commitment to supporting religious groups across the state.
Meanwhile in the lecture delivered by Chief Otunba Lekan Ajirotutu, the Otunba Gbasaniyi of Mushin Land, Nigeria’s Role in World Culture and Heritage Development was underscored, highlighting the collective responsibility of Nigerians to promote Nigerian culture globally.
He addressed the multiplicity of the Nigerian culture, and how it fits to be a source of global admiration while pointing out colonialism as the factor that disrupted the cultural heritage of Nigerians, imposing foreign religions.
He noted that countries such China, Cuba, Brazil, and Venezuela now embrace, practice, and promote aspects of African cultural heritage, contrary to the actual custodians of these traditions.
“It is time for us to awaken to the legacy of our forefathers, to cherish the spiritual traditions of our ancestors, and to embrace the roots that define us. By reclaiming and celebrating our heritage, Nigeria can continue to stand as a beacon of cultural pride and global influence.”he added.
Meanwhile, Chief Ifasegun Elegushi, the Opemoluwa of Ikate Land and President of AATREN, cautioned members against decorating chiefs with crowns reserved for kings, as that is contrary to cultural practices, referencing the newly established traditional laws which provide sections against violators and clarified misconceptions surrounding coronation practices in Yoruba communities.
He made a peace prayer for the nation under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, and the Lagos State cabinet.
Ganiyyah Fashina