Gani Adams Urges Yoruba Diaspora Unity as OPU South Africa Marks 10th Anniversary

The Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams, has called for greater unity among Yoruba people in the diaspora, declaring that collective strength is essential for cultural continuity, political relevance, and economic empowerment.

Adams made the statement at the 10th anniversary of the Oodua Progressive Union (OPU) South Africa chapter, where he urged Nigerians abroad especially Yoruba communities, to close ranks and protect their identity despite being far from home.

He warned that fragmentation weakens the cultural influence of the Yoruba nation abroad, while unity ensures the preservation of language, festivals, traditions, and values for future generations.

Adams also stressed the importance of teaching indigenous languages to children born or raised outside Nigeria, describing language as the backbone of cultural identity.

According to him, “Once a child loses their mother tongue, they slowly disconnect from their roots. Yoruba parents in the diaspora must see language education as a duty, not an option.”

OPU South Africa’s National Coordinator, Chief Kayode Orenisi, reflected on the group’s decade-long journey, highlighting milestones such as the establishment of a Yoruba School and the growth of member-owned businesses across South Africa.

He credited Adams’ consistent leadership for the survival and global spread of OPU, noting that the organisation has remained committed to promoting Yoruba dignity and unity abroad.

Other dignitaries, including the Olu-Agbegise of Ogun State and Yoruba One Voice (YOV) Secretary, Prince Ademiluyi Adedokun, echoed the call for diaspora unity and encouraged Nigerians abroad to maintain strong economic and cultural ties with their homeland.

The event was described by organisers as a celebration of “10 years of heritage, solidarity, and global Yoruba pride.”