ISESE DAY 2026: JUBRIL DOTUN SANUSI CALLS FOR UNITY, PRAYERS AND PRESERVATION OF YORUBA CULTURE

Chief Sanusi described the annual Isese celebration as more than a cultural occasion, stressing that it provides an important platform to reconnect with the ancestral heritage, indigenous values, history and identity of the Yoruba people.

In his goodwill message, the prominent Ibadan High Chief called on traditional worshippers to make the occasion a period of prayer, reflection, thanksgiving and renewed commitment to peace and unity.

He particularly urged devotees and traditional leaders to pray for the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the government and people of Oyo State, and the entire Nigerian nation.

According to him, Nigeria needs the collective prayers, support and responsible contributions of all citizens at this critical stage of national development.

Chief Sanusi also emphasised the important role of traditional institutions in preserving Yoruba history, culture and indigenous knowledge, noting that cultural heritage remains an important component of societal identity and continuity.

He encouraged traditional worshippers to use the celebration to promote peaceful coexistence, tolerance, mutual respect and unity, while demonstrating that cultural identity and religious diversity can coexist harmoniously within a united Nigeria.

The Okanlomo Oodua further called on younger generations to learn, appreciate and preserve the positive values embedded in Yoruba culture and traditions, so that the heritage passed down by their forebears would not be lost.

He stressed that the preservation of culture should go hand in hand with values that promote peaceful communities, responsible citizenship, respect for humanity and commitment to the development of society.

Chief Sanusi reaffirmed his commitment to initiatives that promote cultural heritage, peaceful coexistence and the continued development of Ibadanland, Oyo State and Nigeria.

He wished all traditional worshippers, traditional rulers, cultural custodians and devotees at home and in the diaspora a peaceful, spiritually fulfilling and memorable Isese Day 2026 celebration.