Brazil Commits to Full Support for Nigeria's World Orisha Congress
The Federal Government of Nigeria and the Federative Republic of Brazil have officially partnered to launch the World Orisha Congress (WOOCON), a pioneering initiative poised to become the largest global cultural convergence. This collaboration will bring together practitioners, scholars, and cultural leaders from across the world to celebrate and preserve the rich spiritual and cultural heritage of the Orisha tradition.
Formalizing the Partnership
The partnership was solidified during a closed-door meeting held at the Brazilian Embassy in Abuja on Friday, March 13, 2026. Otunba Biodun Ajiboye, Executive Secretary and CEO of the National Institute for Cultural Orientation (NICO), met with His Excellency Carlos Garcete, the Brazilian Ambassador to Nigeria. Discussions centered on updating Brazil on Nigeria's preparations for hosting WOOCON and addressing the operational logistics required for this ambitious project.
Brazil's deep Afro-descendant heritage was a key point of emphasis during the meeting. Approximately 56 percent of Brazilians have African ancestry, which plays a significant role in the country's socio-cultural landscape. This historical connection underscores Brazil's strong commitment to supporting the initiative, as it aligns with the nation's cultural identity and values.
Governance and Leadership Structure
WOOCON will be governed by a Board of Trustees (BOT), chaired by His Imperial Majesty, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja II, the Ooni of Ife. The Alaafin of Oyo will serve as Co-Chair, while Otunba Ajiboye will act as Secretary of the BOT. The initiative also enjoys the patronage of distinguished figures, including Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka and Professor Wande Abimbola, alongside esteemed traditional rulers who will form the Traditional Council of WOOCON.
High-level discussions are ongoing to consolidate the initiative further. In this regard, the Ooni of Ife and a select delegation are expected to meet with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to advance the WOOCON agenda, ensuring it receives the necessary governmental backing and resources.
Objectives and Vision of WOOCON
Set to be an annual celebration, WOOCON aims to promote, preserve, and showcase the rich spiritual and cultural heritage of the Orisha tradition. It seeks to strengthen cultural ties between Africa and the global Afro-descendant community, fostering a sense of unity and shared identity. Otunba Ajiboye explained to the Brazilian Ambassador that the initiative responds to a longstanding desire among Afro-descendants in Brazil to reconnect with their ancestral roots in Africa.
"The Orisha tradition originates from Yorubaland in South-West Nigeria. WOOCON is designed to host descendants of the Orisha tradition from around the world two to three times annually at a dedicated location, WOOCON City," he stated, highlighting the project's goal of creating a permanent hub for cultural exchange and celebration.
Brazil's Pledge of Support
Ambassador Garcete expressed full support for the project, pledging ideas and resources to ensure its success. "We are eager to assist with guidance and resources as needed. You can count on us," he affirmed, reinforcing Brazil's dedication to the initiative. This commitment includes logistical assistance, financial contributions, and cultural expertise to help make WOOCON a landmark event on the global stage.
The partnership between Nigeria and Brazil marks a significant step forward in cultural diplomacy, leveraging shared heritage to build bridges across continents. As preparations continue, both nations are optimistic about the potential of WOOCON to become a premier platform for cultural preservation and international collaboration.
