Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has strongly emphasized the need to preserve African cultural heritage, declaring that anyone who dismisses Ifa, the Yoruba system of divination, as insignificant is a “fool.”

Speaking during a gathering in Abeokuta, Ogun State, on Sunday, Obasanjo underscored the importance of protecting Yoruba culture and traditions from extinction, describing them as “authentic” and vital to the African identity.
Obasanjo made these remarks while celebrating the 50th birthday of renowned female talking drummer, Olamuyiwa Aralola, popularly known as Ara, at the Green Legacy Hotel and Resort within the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL). He hailed Ara for breaking barriers in an art form traditionally dominated by men and for her efforts in preserving Yoruba cultural heritage.
“For whatever reason, we must preserve our culture,” Obasanjo said. “Ara is a woman of culture, a cultural ambassador. She has lifted our culture and broken the taboo around what was once believed to be exclusively for men. She has not only excelled in this but is also mentoring young people to carry on her legacy.”
Reflecting on cultural taboos, Obasanjo noted that growing up, there were two activities considered inappropriate for women: climbing palm trees and playing the talking drum. He praised Ara for challenging these norms and excelling in her craft.
The former president urged people to strive for excellence in their endeavors. “Whatever you find your hands doing, do it well. If you are a dancer, dance well. If you are a footballer, play well. Our culture must not be relegated to the background. Our language, food, dress, and other traditions are authentic and must be preserved,” he said.
Obasanjo also addressed the misconception that embracing Christianity or Islam means abandoning one’s cultural roots. “I am a Christian and attended two churches today, but that does not mean I should forget my culture. Whoever says Ifa is nothing, I will say that person is a big fool. Before Christianity and Islam, we had Ifa Orunmila, meaning Olorun lo mo eni to ma la—‘It is Heaven that knows who will be saved.’”
In her remarks, Ara expressed gratitude to Obasanjo for honoring her and supporting her mission to uphold Yoruba traditions. She revealed that she began playing the talking drum at the age of 10 in her father’s palace in Ondo and urged parents to instill cultural values in their children to ensure the preservation of African heritage.
Obasanjo’s passionate call for cultural preservation has resonated widely, serving as a reminder of the need to embrace and protect the rich traditions that define Africa’s identity.