ACC 2026: Olori Ogunwusi, Babalola, Others Champion Preservation of African Identity

Speakers at the 3rd edition of the Afro-Cultural Conference (ACC 2026) have called on Africans to embrace, preserve, and maximise the economic potential of their cultural heritage as a tool for sustainable development and empowerment.

The call was made during the grand finale of the three-day conference held at the Adire Hall, Ake Palace, Abeokuta, Ogun State.

The event had in attendance traditional leaders, scholars, creatives, health professionals, and culture enthusiasts to discuss the theme: “Cultural Renaissance and Creative Economy: Harnessing Africa’s Heritage for a Sustainable Future.”

Delivering the keynote address, Her Regal Majesty, Olori Dr. Ambassador Morenike Temitope Enitan-Ogunwusi, stressed the importance of cultural identity and urged Africans to see their heritage as a valuable resource capable of driving innovation, unity, and economic growth.

Professor Wasiu Babalola, who delivered the lead address, emphasised the need to reconnect younger generations with Africa’s history, traditions, and indigenous knowledge systems, noting that cultural preservation remains vital to building a sustainable future.

The panel session featured cultural experts including Babaláwo Owomide (Anthropologist) Apesin, Mrs. Bola Sholate, and Mr. Afeez Oshundairo, with Mr. Olalekan Aroyehun serving as the panel host. Discussions centred on cultural preservation, digital storytelling, indigenous knowledge, and the role of the creative economy in unlocking opportunities across Africa.

The three-day conference, which held from June 18 to 20, 2026, also featured impactful empowerment and health initiatives, including a free medical outreach at the MKO Abiola Stadium, Kuto, Abeokuta, to mark World Sickle Cell Day.

The medical programme, organised in partnership with BISLab Laboratory, Aqua Homes, Nuel care Pharmacy, and Biofem Pharmaceutical Limited, provided free genotype testing, neuropathy screening, BMI checks, vital signs assessment, and medical consultations for beneficiaries.

Participants were also equipped with entrepreneurial skills through a free bead-making training programme facilitated by Hood Bead NG.

The conference climaxed with the Afro-Cultural Eminence Awards and the grand finale of the Queen Eminence Africa Cultural Pageantry, where exceptional individuals were recognised for their contributions to leadership, humanitarian service, culture, and community development.

The pageantry winners received major prizes courtesy of Adbond harvest and Homes , with the Queen awarded 150 square metres of land, while the First Runner-up received 75 square metres of land. Another participant was also presented with 75 square metres of land as part of the reward package.

Our correspondent reports that the success of ACC 2026 was supported by sponsors and partners including Adbond harvest and Homes, Seaman’s Aromatic Schnapps, Origin by Guinness Nigeria, Indomie, American Cola, alongside other corporate organisations, institutions, and individual supporters.

The organisers led by Historian Atinuke A. Alabi, MITPN Omidan Mitade said the conference has continued to strengthen its commitment to promoting African heritage, empowering young people, advancing cultural education, and positioning culture as a key driver of sustainable development.

Mitade also expressed appreciation to speakers, traditional rulers, sponsors, volunteers, media organisations, vendors, and participants for contributing to the success of the 3rd edition, while announcing that the 4th edition of the Afro-Cultural Conference will hold in June 2027.

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