A lecture in Ibadan has put the spotlight on the role of traditional chanters and poets in keeping the Yoruba language and culture alive. The Sàgbéga Asa lecture, reported on 7 October 2026, was held at the Local Government Staff Training School in Agodi, Ibadan. This article summarises what was reported and explains why the oral arts matter.
What Was Reported
The lecture was titled “Promoting Yoruba Culture and Language: The Pivotal Role of Traditional Chanters and Poets” and was delivered by Dr. Fayemi Fatunde Fakayode. Speakers at the event praised a leading figure, Wolekanle, as a custodian and promoter of Yoruba culture. See the original report at National Insight.
Why Chanters and Poets Matter
Yoruba history, values and proverbs were passed on orally for centuries, and chanters were the memory keepers. Their art includes:
- Oríkì: praise names and praise poetry for people, families and towns. Read more in our guide to oríkì.
- Ìjálá: the hunters’ chant.
- Ẹ̀sà: chants performed for Egúngún masquerades.
- Ẹkún ìyàwó: bridal chants performed at weddings.
Chanting and Language Learning
Chants teach vocabulary, tone and rhythm in a way textbooks cannot. They also preserve proverbs; see Yoruba proverbs. For learners, our guides to the Yoruba alphabet and how to learn Yoruba are good starting points, and the wider debate is covered in is the Yoruba language in danger?
How You Can Help
- Record elders chanting and telling stories, with their permission.
- Take children to cultural events and festivals; see major Yoruba festivals.
- Support Yoruba-language events and lectures in your town.
Yoruba Oral Arts FAQs
What is a Yoruba chanter?
A chanter is a performer who recites praise poetry and traditional verses, often with drums.
What is oríkì?
It is Yoruba praise poetry and praise names.
Why are chants important for the Yoruba language?
They preserve vocabulary, tone, history and values in a spoken form.
