SAGAMU, OGUN STATE — The Executive Chairman of Sagamu Local Government, Ogbeni Jubril Olasile Odulate, has called on the people of Sagamu and Yoruba communities to embrace, preserve and promote their rich cultural heritage, describing Ìṣẹ̀ṣe as an important reflection of the history, identity and indigenous values of the Yoruba people.
Odulate made the call in his message commemorating the 2026 Ìṣẹ̀ṣe Day, urging traditionalists, cultural custodians and residents to remain committed to protecting the traditions, customs and indigenous knowledge passed down from generations.
According to the Council Chairman, Ìṣẹ̀ṣe should not be viewed merely as an annual cultural celebration, but as an opportunity for the people to reconnect with their roots and appreciate the values that have shaped Yoruba society over the years.
He noted that the Yoruba cultural heritage remains a significant part of the identity of the people, stressing the need for deliberate efforts to preserve indigenous traditions for younger generations.
“Ìṣẹ̀ṣe is more than a celebration; it is a reflection of our history, identity and heritage,” Odulate said.
He encouraged the people to take pride in the richness of Yoruba culture while ensuring that cultural values, indigenous knowledge and traditional practices that promote peaceful coexistence and community development are not allowed to disappear.
The Sagamu Local Government Chairman further emphasized the importance of passing cultural knowledge from one generation to another, particularly at a time when globalization and changing lifestyles are increasingly influencing the younger generation.
He urged parents, traditional institutions, cultural organisations and community leaders to play active roles in educating youths about the significance of Yoruba history, language, customs and traditions.
Odulate also used the occasion to advocate religious tolerance and mutual respect among residents, noting that cultural and religious differences should not become sources of division in the community.
He prayed for continued peace, unity and prosperity across Sagamu, Ogun State and Yorubaland, while expressing optimism that the wisdom and positive values inherited from the ancestors would continue to inspire the people to build a better and more united society.
“May our land continue to enjoy peace, unity and prosperity, and may the wisdom of our ancestors continue to inspire us to build a better society,” he added.
The Council Chairman extended his warm greetings to the people of Sagamu, the Yoruba people and Ìṣẹ̀ṣe devotees celebrating the 2026 festival, calling on everyone to celebrate responsibly and use the occasion to strengthen cultural pride and community bonds.
He concluded with the Yoruba maxim: “Àṣà wa ni ìdánimọ̀ wa. Ìṣẹ̀ṣe a bù kún wa,” emphasizing that culture remains an essential part of identity and expressing his wishes for blessings upon the people.
Signed:
Ogbeni Jubril Olasile Odulate
Executive Chairman,
Sagamu Local Government
