The Federal Government has commended Brazil for its vibrant and creative showcase of Yoruba culture during the just-concluded 2025 Rio Carnival, which attracted eight million tourists and generated a remarkable $1.2 billion in revenue.
The Executive Secretary/CEO of the National Institute for Cultural Orientation (NICO), Otunba Biodun Ajiboye, who stated this in a statement issued on Wednesday through his Media Assistant, Caleb Nor, praised Brazil’s deep commitment to promoting Nigerian heritage.
He highlighted how the pulsating Orisa chants and Yoruba-inspired themes captivated millions and reinforced the centuries-old cultural and historical ties between Nigeria and Brazil.
Ajiboye reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening cultural collaborations between both nations, emphasizing the need for structured partnerships following Brazil’s unwavering dedication to Yoruba traditions.
To further this partnership, the Nigerian government is planning high-level cultural conferences in both Nigeria and Brazil.
These conferences will serve as a platform to deepen historical ties, boost tourism, and promote religious harmony.
Scholars, cultural enthusiasts, and government officials will engage in discussions aimed at ensuring the sustainable preservation and global promotion of Yoruba heritage.
Expressing his admiration for Brazil’s celebration of Yoruba traditions, Ajiboye said: “We are inspired by what our Brazilian brothers and sisters are doing. The Orisa tradition originates from Nigeria, and all Orisas have their roots here. It is heartwarming to see that despite the painful history of slavery, our ancestors’ legacy has not only survived but continues to thrive. You have proven that you are truly the children of kings and queens. ‘Omo oko niyin, e kin se omo ale rara’—you are not bastards, but rightful heirs of our heritage.”
Recognizing the growing global significance of the Orisa tradition, NICO is leading efforts to establish the World Orisa Congress, an annual gathering in Nigeria for Orisa devotees worldwide.
With an estimated 450 million adherents, the Orisa spiritual system is a major global force, and Nigeria aims to position itself as its central hub—comparable to Mecca and Jerusalem for Islam and Christianity.
Ajiboye noted that the Orisa tradition, which originated in South-West Nigeria, deserves a global pilgrimage effect. Plans are underway to create a platform that will unite devotees from countries including Brazil, Cuba, Venezuela, the United States, Mexico, Trinidad and Tobago, Haiti, Argentina, and several European nations.
“Religious freedom and tolerance are fundamental to nation-building. We must provide a home for all who wish to reconnect with their spiritual heritage,” he stated.
The NICO boss also commended the Brazilian government’s progressive stance on religious tolerance and its continuous support for cultural diversity.
He expressed optimism that through sustained engagement, Nigeria and Brazil can pioneer new cultural collaborations, ensuring that Yoruba heritage remains vibrant across continents.
He said, “We salute Brazil for its dedication to religious equality and cultural inclusivity. Your efforts in preserving and elevating Yoruba traditions serve as an inspiration to the world. Together, we will continue to build bridges of cultural understanding and mutual respect.”
With these initiatives, Nigeria is set to reaffirm its role as the ancestral home of the Yoruba cultural and spiritual identity, fostering deeper global connections and ensuring that its rich heritage continues to thrive.
