As traditionalists across Nigeria mark the 2024 Isese Day, the Yoruba Council Worldwide has made a strong appeal for the inclusion of African traditional religion in the educational curriculum of primary and secondary schools nationwide.
According to The PUNCH, the Council’s president, Oladotun Hassan, made this appeal during a gathering in Abuja on Tuesday.
His call aligns with the broader recognition of traditional practices, as the United Nations has designated August 20 each year as World Traditional Religion Day.
In recognition of this day, several states in the South West, including Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, and Osun, have declared August 20 a public holiday to celebrate the Isese festival.
This festival honors the rich cultural heritage and traditional beliefs of the Yoruba people.
Speaking in Abuja, Hassan emphasized the historical significance of African traditional religion, stating, “It is known that African traditional religion is the foremost human practice on earth. However, we are mindful of the heterogeneous state of affairs with diverse cultures and religions, hence the need to collaborate together to use our culture and traditions to add value to nation-building.”
He underscored the importance of national unity and peaceful coexistence, saying, “Peace is paramount in the development of a nation, hence we call for you to talk on the need to live in peace and harmony as citizens in Nigeria; amongst all citizens irrespective of race, party, and religious affinities.”
Hassan also urged the Federal Government to give traditional practices the recognition they deserve by establishing a National Traditional Religion Commission, similar to the Hajj Commission and Christian Pilgrims Commission.
He proposed that August 20 be declared a National Traditional Heritage Holiday, thereby giving formal acknowledgment to the importance of these practices in Nigeria’s cultural fabric.
Highlighting the need for cultural education, Hassan called for a renewed focus on the Omoluabi ethos—values of good character and morality—that have declined in society.
“The need to introduce African Traditional Religious Studies in our education curriculum in all primary and secondary schools in Nigeria” is, according to Hassan, a step towards preserving these values for future generations.
