2026 World Tourism Day: Adeleke Urges Use of AI to Showcase Yoruba Culture Globally

By Tobiloba-Taiwo Awofadeju

Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has called for the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technology to document, preserve and promote the rich cultural heritage of the Yoruba people to audiences across the world.

Adeleke said Yoruba culture was too valuable to be overlooked, stressing that it should be properly documented and redesigned through modern technology to educate younger generations while creating economic opportunities and generating revenue for the state.

The governor made the remarks through the Chairman of the Osun State Tourism Board, Hon. Taiwo Adeleke, at Okini in Egbedore Local Government Area during the 2026 World Tourism Day celebration. Speaking on the theme, “Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence to Redesign Tourism,” he noted that Yoruba culture had gained recognition globally but that many Yoruba people were yet to fully appreciate its depth and value.

According to him, aspects of Yoruba heritage, including traditional dressing, behaviour, language and tribal marks, contain historical significance that can be preserved with the help of artificial intelligence. He said technology could be used to document these cultural elements and make them accessible to people around the world, while helping younger generations understand their heritage.

The guest speaker, Dr. Mrs. Omolara Lassie, a representative of the Chartered Institute of Hospitality, Tourism and Management of America, said World Tourism Day was being celebrated globally as different societies continued to promote their cultures. She urged younger people to embrace their cultural heritage and encouraged parents and elders to ensure that children were properly taught the traditions and history of their ancestral communities.

Lassie also advised parents to educate their children on responsible internet use while ensuring that they remain connected to Yoruba culture. She said combining cultural knowledge with digital skills could help transform the state's cultural heritage and tourism sector into a sustainable source of income.

In his royal message, the Olokini of Okini, Oba Kazeem Oyekunle Ilufemiloye, expressed delight at hosting the World Tourism Day celebration in his community. He commended the Osun State Government under Governor Adeleke for its efforts in the state and called on residents to support government programmes aimed at achieving further development.

The celebration featured a variety of cultural activities, including performances by the Osun State Cultural Troupe and displays by masquerades representing different lineages and traditions of ancient Okini. The event was attended by political figures and government officials, including Baba Joseph Kolade Adeleke, Hon. Adebayo Ademiluyi, Special Adviser to the Osun State Governor on Tourism, as well as management and staff of the Osun State Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Osun State Tourism Board and Osun State Council for Arts and Culture, among others.