By Abubakar Imam

The General Manager of UNILORIN 89.3 FM, Mr Idris Akintola Ibrahim (Alooma), has been appointed as a member of the Yorùbá Language Preservation Initiative’s Brain Trust in Africa. The project is designed to safeguard the Yorùbá language and cultural heritage by promoting language proficiency, creative expression, and cultural pride among young people aged 15-18 across Yorùbá-speaking regions of Nigeria.

 In a letter dated September 29, 2025, signed by the Project Coordinator, Mr Olusola Macaulay, a copy of which was sighted by UNILORIN Bulletin,  it was stated that the project seeks to reverse the decline in indigenous language use among young people and ensure that Yorùbá language remains vibrant and relevant for future generations.

 Mr Macaulay said Mr  Alooma was appointed based on his versatility, which is needed to make a significant impact on the preservation of Africa’s rich cultural heritage.

 He stressed that the project’s goals include enhancing fluency and proficiency in Yorùbá, showcasing cultural expressions, and instilling a sense of pride and ownership in Yorùbá identity and heritage. He added that by working together, the project’s organisers hope to create a model for indigenous language revival that can be replicated across Nigeria and beyond.

Mr Macaulay opined that the Brain Trust, which comprises experts and influencers, will provide strategic guidance and support to deliver the programme successfully. He emphasised that  members will contribute to planning sessions, provide guidance on programme development, leverage their networks to enhance the project’s reach, and participate in quarterly review meetings.

The appointment is another notable achievement for Mr Alooma, who is also a Deputy Director at the Directorate of  Corporate Affairs, University of Ilorin,and a seasoned broadcaster with three decades of experience.

Mr Alooma is a recipient of about 90 national and international awards, including the UNESCO, World Royal Award (WORA), and YOMAFA Global Award.