All roads led to the Green Legacy Hotel and Resort, located within the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL) in Abeokuta, Ogun State on Sunday, January 26, 2025, as Africas queen of culture and first female talking drummer, Aralola Sherifat Olamuyiwa aka Ara, celebrated her 50th birthday and 25 years on stage.
Hosted by former President Olusegun Obasanjo and themed: ‘In the Advancement of Its Own Culture Alone Lies True Progress for Each People, the event highlighted the indispensable role of cultural identity in societal growth, unity and resilience.
For more than 20 years, Ara has emerged a beacon of excellence in preserving and promoting the beauty, rhythm and artistry of Yoruba and African culture. Through her unparalleled mastery of the talking drum, she has not only captivated global audiences, but has also helped in bridging cultural divides while fostering a renewed appreciation for the depth and vibrancy of African traditions.
Aras artistry is a testament to resilience, passion, and an unyielding commitment to celebrating the essence of African heritage. She has taken the talking drum, a sacred symbol of Yoruba identity, from local performances to the global stage, demonstrating that African sounds are not only universal but also timeless.
In fact, Aras journey has been one of purpose and perseverance. Through her performances, advocacy and mentorship, she has inspired countless artistes to embrace their roots and share their stories with the world. Her legacy is etched in the hearts of millions who see her as a cultural custodian and an enduring symbol of Africas artistic potential.
Speaking at the ceremony, Chief Obasanjo, who has championed the recognition of African cultural heritage globally, revealed the reason why he hosted the talking drummer to an exclusive birthday luncheon. According to him, he decided to celebrate Ara for being a cultural trailblazer and ambassador in her own right.
For whatever reason, we must preserve our culture. Ara is a woman of culture; she is our cultural ambassador. She has lifted our culture and broken the taboo surrounding what was once believed to be exclusively for the male gender. She has not only excelled in this, but she also nurturing young ones to preserve her legacy, he said.
The ex-president recalled: When I was growing up, there were two things you would never imagine a woman doing: climbing a palm tree and playing the talking drum. Ara has broken the taboo, and she has done it very well.
While calling on Nigerian youths to follow in the footsteps of Ara, Obasanjo said, Whatever good your hands find to do, do it well, and I will celebrate you. The lesson here is that nothing is unimportant in any area of human endeavour.
Expressing her gratitude to the former president, Ara thanked him for the honour done to her, saying he did what her parents didnt live to do for her. “I started playing the talking drum at the age of 10 in my fathers palace in Ondo. I am where I am today because I refused to let my dream die.
This celebration is more than recognition of my personal achievements; it is a tribute to the cultural revolution that I have championed. It serves as a reminder that our collective heritage is our greatest strength, and nurturing it is the key to a brighter, more unified future, she stated.
The ceremony attracted cultural enthusiasts, entertainment stakeholders, media executives, and philanthropists, who were thrilled with music and exciting performances from various cultural groups.
Meanwhile, the celebration continues with thank-you visits to governments, brands, organisations and individuals whose unwavering support has been instrumental in not only elevating African talents and culture, but has equally played a vital role in empowering artistes like Ara to achieve global recognition.