In a major move to safeguard the waning oral traditions of the Yoruba people, Motherland Reality TV has announced the inaugural edition of ITAN ATI ALO: Tales by Moonlight.
The cultural showcase, produced in collaboration with the J. Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture & History, is set to take place on Sunday, December 28, 2025, at the Ariya Village in Onikan, Lagos.
The event, themed “Yoruba Dun,” aims to bridge the generational gap by reconnecting both young and old with their ancestral roots through language, music and community engagement. Organisers have designed the experience to transform the historic J. Randle Centre into a contemporary “grandparents’ courtyard,” complete with lantern lighting, traditional adire and aso-oke drapes, and the evocative aromas of incense and local delicacies.
The programme features an impressive lineup of renowned Yoruba griots and storytellers. Hosted by Agba Lumi, the night will include performances and tales from Tunde Kelani, Aremo Gemini, Bolanle Onistory, Masoyinbo, Olamilekan Waheed and Prolific Pen.
Beyond storytelling, the event will address serious cultural concerns. A keynote speech and panel discussion titled “Yoruba Speaking & Teaching in Our Schools” will tackle the decline of the language in educational systems and explore digital revival strategies.
“This is a safe cultural space where Yoruba people can feel seen, heard and reconnected,” says Adeola Adeniyi, Creative Director of Motherland Reality TV. “At a time when our language faces gradual erosion, ITAN ATI ALO calls us back to ourselves to remember, speak and preserve who we are.”.
The evening will also feature interactive installations where guests can discover the meanings of their Yoruba names, an “Elders’ Corner” for traditional blessings, and “igbalode” paparazzi to capture the red carpet arrivals.
The event begins with a red carpet at 4pm, while the main programme takes place from 5pm prompt)
Tickets are available on-site for N5,000.
