Ibadan, Nigeria—November 23, 2024:
The timeless art of storytelling took center stage at the inaugural “Storytelling with the Legends” event hosted by the Department of School Library and Media Technology at the University of Ibadan. Held on Saturday, November 23, 2024, the event celebrated Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage while honoring legendary figures who have left indelible marks on the nation’s history. This maiden edition spotlighted His Royal Highness and Excellency, Oba (Senator) Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, in a dual celebration of his profound contributions to Nigeria and his 80th birthday.

The event drew a diverse audience, including children, students, faculty members, chiefs of Ibadanland, elder statesmen, and educators. It inspired participants to embrace the values of resilience, wisdom, and cultural pride through the transformative power of storytelling.

Aims of the Event

The “Storytelling with the Legends” series seeks to bridge the generational divide by connecting young minds with the wisdom and experiences of Nigeria’s iconic figures. Its objectives include:

• Promoting storytelling as a tool to educate the youth about Nigeria’s diverse history and traditions.
• Instilling values such as resilience, integrity, and cultural pride among participants.
• Encouraging a strong reading culture among children and young adults.
• Celebrating the legacies of individuals who have shaped Nigeria’s socio-political and cultural landscapes.

Event Highlights

The event featured several notable moments that resonated deeply with attendees:

Welcome and Opening Remarks

The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Professor Kayode Adebowale, represented by Professor Mojeed K. Akinsola, delivered a heartwarming address, commending Oba Ladoja for gracing the occasion. Dr. K. A. Aramide, Head of the Department of School Library and Media Technology, set the tone with an inspiring opening speech. Esteemed dignitaries from academia, professional bodies, and cultural communities also graced the event.

Oba Rashidi Ladoja with Dr. Kolawole Aramide (seating), HOD, SLMT, UI

Storytelling Session with Oba Ladoja

Oba Ladoja captivated the audience with anecdotes from his life, weaving together Yoruba traditions and his personal journey from childhood to becoming a respected monarch and politician. His stories highlighted themes of resilience, community service, and justice, imparting valuable life lessons to the young and old alike.

Interactive Q&A Session

A lively Q&A session allowed attendees to engage directly with Oba Ladoja. His candid responses, filled with humor and wisdom, provided practical advice on embracing change, overcoming challenges, and living with integrity.

Children’s Cultural Activities

Children from invited schools and cultural troupes such as the Asantiwa Group added vibrancy to the event with cultural performances. The Director of the Nigerian Copyright Commission, Oyo State office, distributed books to participating schools, further promoting literacy and education.

Cultural Impact

The event underscored the enduring relevance of storytelling in preserving cultural heritage and values. Oba Ladoja’s narratives left attendees inspired by his leadership and commitment to community service, emphasizing the importance of honoring one’s roots while striving for excellence.

A Vision for the Future

As the Department of School Library and Media Technology continues to champion literacy, cultural awareness, and community engagement, the “Storytelling with the Legends” series is set to become a cornerstone initiative. With plans to expand and feature more legends, the program aspires to inspire future generations to cherish Nigeria’s cultural heritage while cultivating moral and intellectual growth.

The success of this inaugural event serves as a testament to the power of storytelling in shaping a brighter future for Nigeria’s youth, fostering creativity, and building a cohesive society grounded in shared values.