At the 2025 Yoruba Day celebration in Geneva, Switzerland, Olota of Otta, Oba Adeyemi Obalanlege, urged the diaspora community to preserve cultural identity and pass traditions to future generations
Olota Advocates Cultural Identity Preservation at Yoruba Day Celebration in Switzerland
Geneva, Switzerland, came alive on September 27, 2025, as the Yoruba Community hosted a vibrant and historic “Yoruba Day” celebration, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Yoruba people and emphasizing the importance of preserving traditions for future generations.
The colorful event featured cultural displays, music, and dance, attracting not only Yorubas in the diaspora but also Nigerians from other ethnic groups, including Igbo and Hausa communities, alongside international well-wishers.
The Royal Father of the Day, His Majesty, Professor Adeyemi Obalanlege, Ph.D., Olota of the Ancient and Paramount Otta, Aworiland, commended the Yoruba community in Switzerland for their unwavering commitment to sustaining cultural identity while living abroad.
Kabiyesi Olota urged the community to remain consistent in organizing cultural events for the benefit of younger generations who may not frequently visit Nigeria. “Cultural awareness and identity must be preserved no matter the distance from the homeland,” His Majesty stressed.
He also expressed deep appreciation for the solidarity shown by Nigerians from other ethnic groups. “Their support is a commendable show of national unity, worthy of recognition and emulation,” Kabiyesi said.
Organizers of the event praised His Majesty’s leadership in promoting Yoruba heritage both at home and across the diaspora. They described him as a royal father whose integrity, dignity, and vision continue to inspire efforts to preserve cultural identity globally.
Distinguished guests included Mr. Olumuyiwa Ogundemi, Charge d’Affaires at the Nigerian Embassy in Bern; Engr. Oluyemi Ogundele, Coordinator of the Adire Carnival in Austria; and other notable dignitaries. His Majesty was accompanied by Olori Oloruntoyin Obalanlege, Chief Raymond Okikiolu Fadayiro (Baamolu of Otta), and Chief Mrs. Angela Fadayiro (Yeye Baamolu of Otta).
Firmly established as an annual tradition, Yoruba Day remains a vital platform for cultural preservation, identity promotion, and community bonding among Yorubas in the diaspora—reaffirming the enduring relevance of cultural heritage in fostering unity and pride across borders. Read More
