NICO Applauds Brazil’s Yoruba Showcase at Rio Carnival

The National Institute for Cultural Orientation (NICO) has praised Brazil for its vibrant showcase of Yoruba culture at the recently concluded 2025 Rio de Janeiro Carnival.

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In a statement on Friday in Abuja, NICO’s Executive Secretary and CEO, Chief Biodun Ajiboye, commended Brazil’s creative presentation of Nigerian heritage.

The 2025 Rio Carnival, held from Feb. 28 to March 8 at the Sambadrome, attracted over eight million tourists.

According to Ajiboye, Brazil’s dedication to promoting Nigerian culture was evident in the rhythmic Orisa chants and Yoruba-inspired themes featured during the event.

He noted that the display not only captivated millions but also highlighted the deep historical and cultural ties between Nigeria and Brazil.

“We are inspired by what our Brazilian brothers and sisters are doing as the Orisa tradition originates from Nigeria; all Orisas have their base here.

“It is heart-warming to see that despite being taken forcefully as slaves our ancestors kept the flames alive, and their descendants continued to preserve and celebrate it with such grandeur.

“You have shown that you are truly the children of kings and queens; you are not bastards but true heirs of our heritage, ” he said.

Ajiboye commended Brazil for its commitment to religious equality and cultural inclusivity.

He said: “Your efforts in preserving and elevating Yoruba traditions serve as an inspiration to the world.

“Together, we will continue to build bridges of cultural understanding and mutual respect.”

He stated that the Federal Government is committed to strengthening collaborations between Nigeria and Brazil.

To support this effort, he revealed plans for high-level cultural conferences in both countries, aimed at deepening historical ties, boosting tourism, and promoting religious harmony.

According to him, NICO is leading preparations for the World Orisa Congress, a landmark event that will bring Orisa devotees from around the world to Nigeria annually.

He added that these gatherings would create a platform for scholars, cultural enthusiasts, and government officials to explore sustainable strategies for cultural preservation and global engagement.

“The Orisa spiritual system is a global force with an estimated 450 million adherents worldwide , and Nigeria seeks to position itself as the epicentre of its convergence—akin to Mecca and Jerusalem.

“The Orisa tradition, which originated in South-West Nigeria, deserves a major pilgrimage effect, ” he said.

He stated that NICO is developing a platform to unite devotees from Brazil, Cuba, Venezuela, the United States, Mexico, Trinidad and Tobago, Haiti, Argentina, Europe, and the UK.

The executive secretary also praised the Brazilian government for its progressive approach to religious tolerance and strong support for cultural diversity.

He expressed optimism that ongoing engagements between Nigeria and Brazil would open new avenues for collaboration, ensuring the continued global recognition and preservation of Yoruba heritage.

The Rio de Janeiro Carnival, dating back to 1723, is an annual festival held before Lent in Brazil.

Recognized as the world’s largest carnival, it attracts an average of two million people per day, featuring vibrant street parades, elaborate floats, and performances from various samba schools.

A samba school is a community-based group formed by local neighbors who share a common regional, geographical, or cultural background and come together to participate in the carnival.

 

 

NAN/Oluchi