Sixteen Great Poems of Ifá

Professor Wande Abimbola, a distinguished Nigerian academic, scholar, and practitioner of Ifá, was born on December 26, 1932, in Oyo State, Nigeria. His family, deeply rooted in the traditions of Ifá, provided him with a culturally rich environment steeped in Yoruba spirituality and philosophy. This upbringing profoundly influenced his academic and spiritual path, earning him the respect and admiration of many. Prof. Abimbola's academic journey began at the University of Ibadan, where he studied history. His deep interest in Yoruba culture and its religious systems shaped his educational focus, leading him to study African languages and literature further. His scholarly work has significantly contributed to understanding Yoruba cosmology, art, language, and religious practices, especially the Ifá divination system. In 1971, he earned his PhD from the University of Lagos. His dissertation focused on the Ifá literary corpus, marking him as a leading authority on Yoruba oral literature and religious philosophy. His academic career flourished with his appointments as a professor and later as Vice-Chancellor at the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University), where he was instrumental in promoting research and education on African traditional religions. Professor Abimbola's work extends beyond academia into cultural advocacy and religious practice. He has been a staunch advocate for preserving and promoting African traditional religions, especially Ifá, which he views not only as a religion but also as a source of wisdom and a guide for personal and communal living. His efforts have been recognized globally, leading to his appointment as the spokesperson to the Awujale, the traditional ruler of Ijebuland, and his role as a cultural ambassador, promoting Yoruba culture and religion worldwide. Throughout his career, Prof. Abimbola has published extensively. His publications include seminal works such as "Ifá: An Exposition of Ifá Literary Corpus" and "Yoruba Oral Tradition." His writings, which have been influential in academia, are also used in practice by practitioners of Ifá and scholars of comparative religion and philosophy. Prof. Abimbola's contributions to cultural preservation have not gone unnoticed. His work has garnered him numerous accolades and recognitions, including honorary degrees and awards from universities and cultural organizations around the world. As a visiting professor at several prestigious universities in the United States and Europe, he has taught courses on African religions and philosophy, inspiring a sense of pride and appreciation in his audience. As an esteemed elder in the Ifá community, Prof. Abimbola's commitment to the spread and understanding of Ifá philosophy is unwavering. He continues to be actively involved in the training of new generations of Ifá practitioners and scholars. This dedication reflects his belief in the relevance of Ifá to contemporary issues of peace, justice, and human development, inspiring respect and admiration in his audience. In his personal life, Prof. Abimbola is known for his humility and dedication to family. He is a patriarch to a large family, many of whom are also engaged in the study and practice of Yoruba traditions. His legacy is evident in the widespread respect and admiration he commands within and outside Nigeria. Professor Wande Abimbola's lifelong dedication to studying and promoting Ifá and Yoruba culture has made him a central figure in preserving African spiritual heritage and an inspiring leader in the global conversation on indigenous knowledge and religious practice. His work inspires a deeper appreciation and understanding of Africa's rich traditions.