BY TIMOTHY AGBOR
The United States of America stood still recently for the 2023 Yoruba Cultural Exchange Festival in Chicago Illinois where Chief Oyeniyi Oyebanji Sango bagged an Honourary Cultural Ambassador Award for his immense contribution to the Yoruba and African tradition and culture globally.
The moment was filled with pride and excitement for Chief Oyeniyi, an art educator deeply devoted to Ifa, who hails from the esteemed Balogun Aliwo family in Iwo, Osun State, Nigeria.
He has dedicated his life to teaching people worldwide various aspects of African culture, such as fabric dyeing with traditional patterns, quilting, applique, drumming, dancing, and even crafting African drums.
The organisers of the festival, First Eye Concept, awarded Chief Oyeniyi Sango and other nominees after a rigorous nomination and vetting process.
The cultural exchange festival which held at Malcolm x College main auditorium, 1900 W Jackson Bivd, Chicago Illinois 60612 had in attendance dignitaries from all walks of life including the popular musician, Jesse King (Buga Maestro).
The Founder/CEO of First Eye Concept, Wole Akanni Duro-Ladipo, presented the prestigious award to Chief Oyeniyi Sango.
He emphasised that the recognition was a testament to Sango’s undeniable impact in spreading Yoruba culture, values, and traditions to the USA and the world.
The two-day festival aimed to promote Yoruba culture and honour individuals who have contributed to the cultural exchange and promotion of Yoruba and African heritage.
Past recipients of this award include Chief Mrs. Nike Okundaye-Davis, United States representative from Illinois 7th congressional district, Mr. Danny K. Davis, HRM Oba Dr. Festus Adekunle Adeyemi (Alakola of Akola-Ijesa), HRM Oba Prof. Adekunle Adeogun, Okunoye Oyedeji II (Eburu of Iba), and others.
Chief Oyeniyi Sango receiving the award
Chief Oyeniyi Sango receiving the award
Fondly known as ‘Sango,’ Chief Oyeniyi dedicated this award to Olodumare, his family, well-wishers, and all those who actively promote Yoruba culture and tradition both within and beyond Nigeria’s borders.
It is worthy of note that in 2016, Chief Oyeniyi also received the award of Cultural Ambassador from the African Founding Fathers in Houston, Texas, USA.