This is the story of Ifa Priest, Prof. Wande Abombola who is the Awise Awo Agbaye. He was given that respected title in 1981 by the late Ooni of Ife on the recommendation of a conclave of Babalawos of Yorubaland.
He is 93 years old and shuttles between his base in the US and Oyotown, where he hails from.
What stands him out is because he is an intellectual who is a Professor of Yoruba Language and Literature. He rose to become the Vice Chancellor of the University of Ife, (now called Obafemi Awolowo University).
Abimbola received his first degree in History from University College, Ibadan, in 1963 when that college was affiliated to the University of London. He received his Master’s degree in Linguistics from Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, in 1966, and his Doctorate of Philosophy in Yoruba Literature from the University of Lagos in 1971.Abimbola was the first PhD graduate of the University of Lagos. He became a full professor in 1976.
Abimbola taught in 3 Nigerian universities, namely University of Ibadan from 1963 to 1965, University of Lagos from 1966 to 1972, and the University of Ife from 1972 to 1991. He has also taught at several US universities, including Indiana University, Amherst College, Harvard University, Boston University, Colgate University, and most recently, the University of Louisville [citation needed]. Abimbola has written books on Ifá and Yoruba culture. In 1977, Abimbola’s Ifá Divination Poetry was published by NOK Publishers.
Professor Wande Abimbola is a linguist, and cultural historian. He is a prominent authority on Yoruba studies, particularly in the areas of language, culture, and Ifá divination.
Some of his notable achievements include: (1) Developing the modern Yoruba orthography (writing system). (2) Translating the Ifá divination corpus into English. (3) Serving as the Awujale of Ijebu-Ode’s (a prominent Yoruba monarch) chief advisor on cultural matters.
Professor Abimbola has written extensively on Yoruba culture, language, and history. His works have been widely acclaimed and respected within academic and cultural circles.
Professor Abimbola has made significant contributions to the development and promotion of Yoruba language and Culture. Some of his notable contributions include:
(1) Yoruba Orthography: Professor Abimbola played a crucial role in developing the modern Yoruba orthography, which has enabled the language to be written and communicated more effectively.
(2) Ifá Divination: He has translated the Ifá divination corpus into English, making this complex and sacred Yoruba tradition more accessible to a global audience.
(3) Yoruba Cultural Promotion: Professor Abimbola has worked tirelessly to promote Yoruba Culture, both within Nigeria and internationally. He has served as a consultant to various cultural institutions and has organized several cultural events and festivals.
NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS AND RESEARCH WORKS
Professor Abimbola has published numerous books, articles, and research papers on Yoruba language, culture, and history. Some of his notable publications include:
(1) “Ifá: An Exposition of Ifá Literary Corpus” (1976) – This book is a comprehensive study of the Ifá divination tradition and its literary corpus.
(2) “Yoruba Culture: A Philosophical Account” (2005) – In this book, Professor Abimbola provides a philosophical analysis of Yoruba culture, exploring its underlying values, beliefs, and practices.
(3) “The Ifá Concept of Destiny” (2011) – This article explores the concept of destiny in Ifá divination and its implications for Yoruba philosophy and culture.
Professor Wande Abimbola’s contributions to Yoruba language, culture, and history are immeasurable. His work has helped to promote a deeper understanding and appreciation of Yoruba culture, both within Nigeria and globally. Professor Wande Abimbola’s contributions to Ifá are immense and far-reaching. Here are some of his key contributions:
TRANSLATING THE IFÁ CORPUS
Professor Abimbola translated the Ifá literary corpus into English, making it accessible to a global audience. This translation has helped to:
(1) Preserve the Ifá tradition: By committing the oral tradition to writing, Professor Abimbola has helped to preserve the Ifá corpus for future generations.
(2) Promote cross-cultural understanding: The translation has enabled people from diverse cultural backgrounds to engage with Ifá and appreciate its richness and complexity.
INTERPRETING IFÁ PHILOSOPHY
Professor Abimbola has interpreted Ifá philosophy, exploring its underlying principles, concepts, and values. His work has:
(1) Elucidated the concept of destiny: Professor Abimbola has shed light on the Ifá concept of destiny (Ayanmo) and its implications for human existence.
(2) Explored the nature of the universe: His work has examined the Ifá understanding of the universe, including the concepts of Olodumare (the Supreme Being), Orunmila (the deity of wisdom), and the cosmos.
PROMOTING IFÁ AS A SYSTEM OF KNOWLEDGE
Professor Abimbola has advocated for Ifá as a legitimate system of knowledge, worthy of recognition and respect. He has:
(1) Challenged Western epistemological dominance: By promoting Ifá as a distinct system of knowledge, Professor Abimbola has challenged the dominant Western epistemological paradigm.
(2) Encouraged interdisciplinary research: His work has inspired research in various fields, including anthropology, sociology, philosophy, and cultural studies.
INSTITUTIONALIZING IFÁ STUDIES
Professor Abimbola has played a crucial role in institutionalizing Ifá studies, both within Nigeria and internationally. He has:
(1) He established the Ifá Studies Institute: This institute has become a hub for Ifá research, education, and cultural promotion.
(2) Developed Ifá-related academic programs: Professor Abimbola has helped design academic programs focused on Ifá studies, ensuring the transmission of Ifá knowledge to future generations.
Professor Wande Abimbola’s contributions to Ifá have been instrumental in promoting a deeper understanding and appreciation of this rich and complex tradition. His work has helped to:
(1) Preserve Ifá heritage: By documenting and translating the Ifá corpus, Professor Abimbola has helped preserve Ifá heritage for future generations.
(2) Promote cross-cultural understanding: His work has facilitated a greater understanding of Ifá and its significance within the global cultural landscape.
Overall, Professor Abimbola’s contributions to Ifá have been groundbreaking, and his legacy continues to inspire new generations of scholars, researchers, and cultural enthusiasts.
