Governor Sanwo-Olu opens the Yoruba Heritage Museum at J Randle Centre in Lagos, celebrating Yoruba culture and calling for the repatriation of artefacts.

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has officially opened the Yoruba Heritage Museum at the J Randle Centre for Yoruba Heritage and Culture in Onikan, making it accessible to the public.

This museum, a key feature of the centre inaugurated last year, showcases Yoruba historical, artistic, and cultural artefacts.

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At the event, Sanwo-Olu announced the appointment of Mr. Qudus Onikeku as the Centre’s Director. Speaking during an interactive session with stakeholders from the creative industry, the Governor highlighted Lagos as Africa’s “cultural epicentre,” affirming his administration’s commitment to bolstering the state’s creative economy through private sector collaboration.

“Our goal is to position Lagos as a premier destination for tourism, art, and culture across Africa and beyond,” Sanwo-Olu stated, emphasising Lagos’s role in tourism, music, film, art, and culture.

He also underscored the importance of preserving Yoruba heritage for future generations, noting, “This museum will serve as a historic site celebrating our heritage and sharing it with the world.”

Sanwo-Olu called for the repatriation of Yoruba artefacts held in foreign museums, saying these objects would help “unite the past, present, and future in one place.”

He also expressed concerns about the fading use of local dialects in schools, viewing it as a disconnect from Yoruba heritage that needs attention.

Tracing Lagos’s rich history, Sanwo-Olu discussed the area’s transformation since the colonial era, when sites like the J Randle Centre and the Yoruba Tennis Club were local recreational hubs amidst colonial landmarks.

“This area holds great historical significance,” he said, noting how it remains central to Nigeria’s cultural narrative.

The Governor reiterated Lagos’s reputation as Africa’s capital of tourism, fashion, and entertainment, where the creative sector is a fundamental part of the government’s developmental vision.

He acknowledged recent achievements in supporting creatives through initiatives like Ogidi Studios, EbonyLife Academy, and Del-York Academy, which have collectively trained thousands and awarded grants to filmmakers.

Going forward, Sanwo-Olu pledged continued government support to further strengthen Lagos’s entertainment ecosystem, reshaping the industry narrative on a global scale.

Commissioner for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Toke Benson-Awoyinka, praised the museum’s opening as a testament to Lagos State’s dedication to preserving Yoruba heritage.

She highlighted that the J Randle Centre aims to inspire pride and connection among visitors, celebrating the contributions and enduring spirit of Yoruba ancestors.