Prince Tunde Odunlade, founder of the Tunde Odunlade Art Foundation, delivered a passionate charge for young Nigerians to reclaim their cultural identity during the opening of Cultural Iris 2026 at the National Museum of Unity.
Speaking at the event, Prince Tunde praised the initiative by Mary Chineye Nweke, describing it as a timely and significant effort.
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He highlighted the rapid decline of Nigerian culture and urged a deep national reflection, especially on Democracy Day. He noted that while democracy is being celebrated, Nigerians have lost much to Western influence, particularly in the cultural space.
According to him, what is being practiced as democracy is largely the version dictated by the West rather than a truly local expression, describing the situation as unfortunate and self-deceptive.
Prince Tunde called on Nigerians to “come back home,” echoing the message in Adekunle Gold’s song Grass is Greener.
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He stressed the need for critical self-examination across three eras: who Nigerians were before colonialism, who they became during colonial rule, and who they have become in the post-colonial period. This introspection, he said, is essential for understanding the nation’s current direction.
He commended the choice of venue, noting that hosting such a programme at the National Museum of Unity is highly appropriate. Prince Tunde encouraged young Nigerians especially to return to their culture and actively engage with institutions like museums and art galleries as pathways to cultural rediscovery.
In a key distinction, he explained the difference between tradition and culture. Tradition, he said, involves practices people continue even without understanding their purpose. Culture, on the other hand, is dynamic and lived daily.
He advised that traditions should be carefully examined and questioned rather than followed blindly, emphasizing that culture is not static but evolves.
