The Olowu of Owu Kuta in Osun State, Oba Adekunle Oyelude Makama, CON, has been honoured with the UNESCO-Backed TOFAC Award for Cultural Preservation.
The prestigious award was conferred on the monarch during the 14th edition of the Toyin Falola International Conference on Africa and the African Diaspora (TOFAC), held at Osun State University, Osogbo, Osun State.
In his remarks shortly after receiving the award, Oba Makama expressed gratitude to God and described the recognition as a well-deserved honour for traditional rulers who remain committed to safeguarding African culture and heritage.
“I feel highly elated, and to the glory of God Almighty, this honour today by the Toyin Falola UNESCO Foundation as a custodian of culture is well merited,” the monarch said.
The organisers explained that Oba Makama was selected in recognition of his remarkable contributions to educational development, cultural preservation, and his unwavering promotion of the Yoruba heritage.
The monarch commended the organisers for the initiative, noting that the beneficiaries of the award were carefully chosen based on their dedication to preserving the culture and tradition entrusted to them.
He also urged Professor Toyin Falola and other stakeholders to use platforms like TOFAC to further promote African traditions and cultural values.
“As custodians of culture, we will continue in that line, and we will not shy away,” Oba Makama assured.
The traditional ruler further used the opportunity to rally support for President Bola Tinubu’s administration, particularly in promoting arts, culture, and tourism as key drivers of national growth.
According to him, Nigeria is richly blessed with numerous tourist sites and a vibrant cultural heritage that, if properly harnessed, can significantly boost the nation’s economy and generate foreign revenue.
“We must rebrand Nigeria through culture and tourism to consolidate the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu. Culture is not just a way of life, it is a strong tool for national unity, economic growth, and international recognition,” he added.
