… Monarch recognised for outstanding contributions to the advancement of Yoruba language at UNILAG conference
By Rashidat O. Okunlade | Lagos
It was a moment of academic and cultural convergence as Ọba (Dr.) Adésínà Fakáyọ̀dé Faluade Aníkinníkùn, Olú Ọba 1, was honoured with the prestigious Award of Excellence by the Ẹgbẹ́ Onímọ̀ Èdè Yorùbá Nàìjíríà (Yoruba Studies Association of Nigeria).
The award, which conferred on the monarch the traditional title of Ọba Afèdè-Yangàn Ẹgbẹ́ Onímọ̀ Èdè Yorùbá, UNILAG, was presented during the association’s 2026 National Conference.
Acknowledging Contributions to Yoruba Language
According to the citation on the award plaque, the royal recognition was given “in acknowledgement of your contribution to Yoruba Language.”
The award was formally presented on Tuesday, October 6, 2026. It was signed by the Local Organising Committee (LOC) Chairman, Dr. Kéhìndé G. Ọládéjọ, and the LOC Secretary, Dr. Sunday C. Owoade.
The 2026 National Conference
The presentation took place at the 2026 National Conference of the Yoruba Studies Association of Nigeria, hosted by the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Akoka.
Themed “Yorùbá ní Àwùjọ Ibílẹ̀ – Àgbáyé Òde-Òní: Ìmọ̀, Ìdánimọ̀ àti Àtìnúdá” (Yoruba in the Contemporary Glocal Space: Knowledge, Identity and Innovation), the conference brought together leading scholars, linguists, and cultural custodians to discuss the preservation and evolution of the Yoruba language in a globalised world.
Distinguished academics at the event included the Chief Host, Prof. Folasade T. Ogunsola (Vice-Chancellor, University of Lagos); the Co-Host, Prof. Oluwatoyin T. Ogundipe; and the Keynote Speaker, Prof. Olusegun O. Adekoya.
Why It Matters
In an era where indigenous languages face unprecedented threats from globalisation and linguistic homogenisation, the recognition of custodians like Oba Fálùádé is critical.
As a monarch who is also a practising Ifá priest and a strong advocate for cultural heritage, Oba Fálùádé’s life work embodies the practical preservation of Yoruba cosmology, philosophy, and language. This award by the Yoruba Studies Association of Nigeria bridges the gap between traditional institutions and the academic community, affirming that the survival of a language depends not only on classroom instruction but also on the vibrant, everyday practices upheld by cultural leaders.
The title conferred on him Ọba Afèdè-Yangàn is deeply symbolic. It elevates his status not just as a royal father, but as a paramount linguistic and cultural ambassador for the Yoruba people.
The conference theme, focusing on the “glocal space,” perfectly captures the necessity of this synergy. As Yoruba language and culture adapt to modern realities and digital spaces, the partnership between scholars at institutions like UNILAG and traditional rulers in the grassroots will be the bedrock upon which the language continues to thrive for generations to come.
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