As Yoruba people across the world mark Isèse Day, the Wolekanle Youth Vanguard joins millions of sons and daughters of Yorùbáland in celebrating a heritage that has survived centuries, shaped generations and continues to distinguish our people wherever we are found.
For us, Isèse is not simply about a celebration on the calendar. It is about identity.
It is about remembering the stories of our forefathers, respecting the institutions that preserved our communities, appreciating our indigenous language, music, art, wisdom and traditions, and understanding the values that have held Yoruba society together for generations.
In a rapidly changing world where young people are increasingly exposed to different cultures and lifestyles, there has never been a more important time to reconnect with our roots.
A young person who knows where he comes from is better positioned to understand where he is going.
Oyo State occupies a particularly important position in this conversation. As a historic heartland of Yoruba civilisation, our state possesses a cultural heritage that goes far beyond festivals and traditional ceremonies. Our history, royal institutions, historical sites, indigenous industries, arts, cuisine and traditions represent assets that can be transformed into opportunities for tourism, employment, education and economic development.
This is why the Wolekanle Youth Vanguard appreciates the administration of His Excellency, Engr. Seyi Makinde, for recognising the importance of culture, tourism and heritage in the broader development of Oyo State.
The development of a state is not measured only by roads, buildings and physical infrastructure. It is also measured by how effectively its people preserve their history, develop their human capital and turn their unique identity into opportunities for the future.
We equally celebrate Bashorun Akinwale Akinwole, Wolekanle, whose commitment to grassroots engagement and youth development continues to resonate with young people across Oyo State.
For us as a youth movement, the celebration of Isèse is also a reminder of the kind of future we want to build. We want a generation that can compete globally without abandoning its identity. A generation that can embrace technology without forgetting its language. A generation that can pursue modern careers while appreciating the wisdom of its ancestors.
Our culture should not be something we remember only during festivals. It should be something we consciously preserve, promote and make economically relevant.
There is enormous potential in Oyo State’s cultural and tourism sector. Our young people can become tour operators, historians, filmmakers, content creators, artisans, fashion designers, researchers, cultural entrepreneurs and ambassadors of Yoruba heritage. With the right investment and vision, our culture can become a major contributor to the state’s economy.
We therefore encourage young people to take ownership of our heritage. Learn the language. Study the history. Visit our historical sites. Listen to the stories of our elders. Support indigenous creatives. Promote our festivals responsibly. Most importantly, never be ashamed of where you come from.
The future belongs to a generation that can look forward without turning its back on its past.
On this Isèse Day, the Wolekanle Youth Vanguard celebrates our traditional rulers, cultural custodians, historians, artists, creatives, traditionalists and everyone working to preserve the rich heritage of the Yoruba people.
We wish the people of Oyo State and Yoruba people across the world a peaceful and meaningful celebration.
May Oyo State continue to rise. May our heritage continue to flourish. May our young people continue to carry the torch of our civilisation with pride, wisdom and responsibility.
Happy Isèse Day!
Ẹ kú ọjọ́ Isèse!
Wolekanle Youth Vanguard
