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Momentum is rapidly building for the landmark 140th Anniversary Commemoration of the Kiriji Peace Treaty, as prominent Yoruba leaders, scholars, and cultural icons unite to back the upcoming historic celebration.
Signed in 1886, the Kiriji Peace Treaty remains one of the most significant milestones in Yoruba history, marking the end of a prolonged civil conflict and laying an enduring foundation for reconciliation, unity, and collective progress. To honor this legacy, the Kiriji Heritage Conservation Foundation is organizing a grand symposium scheduled for September 21, 2026, at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan.
Soyinka Hosts Foundation, Emphasizes Living History
In a major buildup to the event, Professor Raymond Ogunade, a member of the Kiriji Heritage Conservation Foundation, paid a courtesy visit to Nobel Laureate Professor Wole Soyinka at his residence, the Autonomous Republic, Ijegba, in Abeokuta.
During the visit, Professor Ogunade briefed the literary icon on the Foundation’s extensive plans to commemorate the treaty. In his response, Professor Soyinka warmly commended the initiative, emphasizing that history must be actively preserved.
“History should not be forgotten but preserved as a living guide for present and future generations,” Soyinka noted, adding that the Kiriji legacy offers vital contemporary lessons on dialogue, leadership, cultural identity, and peaceful coexistence.
Aare Ona Kakanfo Gani Adams Pledges Full Support
Further consolidating stakeholder engagement, the Foundation recorded another significant milestone with the formal endorsement of the Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams.
Professor Soji Adejumo formally delivered the Foundation’s invitation to the Aare Ona Kakanfo, which was followed by a strategic telephone conversation between Iba Gani Adams and the Consultant to the Foundation, Professor Bukola Oyawoye.
Reaffirming his commitment, Iba Gani Adams described the celebration as a source of pride for the entire Yoruba race. He praised the wisdom and unity of the Yoruba forebears in utilizing dialogue to end conflict, officially confirming his intention to attend the September event.
“A Treaty Remembered is a Peace Renewed”
Highlighting the intellectual and philosophical weight of the upcoming anniversary, the event’s Guest Speaker, Professor Isaac Olawale Albert of the University of Ibadan, called for a renewed, conscious commitment to societal harmony.
Reflecting on the enduring relevance of the 1886 accord, Professor Albert remarked that peace is never accidental—it requires intentional protection across generations.
“A treaty remembered is a peace renewed,” Professor Albert stated, pointing out that the Kiriji legacy remains a powerful masterclass in leadership, restraint, and collective responsibility.
Event Details & Structure
The Kiriji Peace Treaty @140 Symposium will be held under the theme: “140 Years of Peace, Unity and Yoruba Heritage: Reflecting on the Legacy of the Kiriji Peace Treaty.” The landmark gathering is set to pull together traditional rulers, scholars, policymakers, cultural stakeholders, youth representatives, and members of the Yoruba diaspora to foster dialogue and collaboration.
- Date: September 21, 2026
- Venue: International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
- Keynote Address: Professor Banji Akintoye
- Guest Lecture: Professor Isaac Olawale Albert
- Special Honorary Focus: Professor Wole Soyinka
- Features: Cultural performances, historical reflections, and heritage exhibitions.
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The Kiriji Heritage Conservation Foundation is a cultural, historical, and developmental organization established to preserve, promote, and immortalize the heritage of the historic Kiriji War and the peace treaty
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