The National Museum of Unity, Ibadan, Oyo State, was filled with excitement as dignitaries, Fuji music stars, and stakeholders in the culture and entertainment industry gathered for the unveiling of a monument in honour of late Fuji music icon, Chief (Dr.) Sikiru Ayinde Barrister (MFR), widely regarded as the creator of Fuji music.
The historic event attracted prominent personalities from the music, cultural and entertainment sectors, including Ayinde Merenge, Ambassador Romoke Ayinde (Karomlee), Oyo State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatunbosun, Chief Kola Oyedeji, Elder Dayo Odeyemi, Chief Oyasola Oyadiji, Chairman of BarryFest, Alhaji Laide Olawunmi (FCA), President-General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Barrister Ajeniyi Ajewole, and several other notable guests.
The event marked the third edition of the unveiling of a monument in honour of the legendary musician, organised by the Barryfest Group as part of efforts to preserve and celebrate his enduring legacy.
The programme had Dr. (Mrs.) Olatunde Oluyemi, Deputy Director of Education Services and Training and other staff of the Museum in attendance.
The Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja (Aruna I), was represented at the event by Mogaji (Dr.) Nurudeen Akinade.
In her welcome address, the Curator and Zonal Director (South-West) of the National Museum of Unity, Mrs. Otuka Pamela Oriyomi, described the honour bestowed on the late music legend as well deserved.
She explained that Barrister’s remarkable legacy in the music industry influenced the museum’s approval of the request by the BarryFest Committee to erect the monument.
Mrs. Oriyomi expressed delight at hosting what she described as a historic gathering of top personalities in the entertainment and cultural sectors.
“I am glad to be part of this historic occasion where we have the crème de la crème of the music and entertainment industry gathered at the National Museum of Unity,” she said.
“When Ambassador Romoke Ayinde approached me with the proposal, I did not hesitate to approve it because of the enduring legacy of Dr. Ayinde Barrister in the music industry. I must commend the BarryFest Committee for their commitment and excellent work.”
She added that the event coincided with activities marking the 50th anniversary celebration of the National Museum of Unity.
Mrs. Oriyomi further commended Ambassador Romoke Ayinde, Barrister Ajewole, Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatunbosun, and other stakeholders for their contributions toward the success of the programme.
Speaking at the occasion, the Oyo State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatunbosun, noted that the Oyo State Government during the Oyo at 50 recognized and honour Barrister’s immense contributions to culture and music.
According to him, the state government was the first to officially honour the Fuji legend during the Oyo at 50 celebrations, adding that plans were underway to immortalise him further by naming a public place after him in Ibadan.
Dr. Olatunbosun also praised the museum curator for her commitment to cultural development and disclosed that he had engaged the Director-General of the National Museum to provide additional support to accelerate developmental projects within the museum.
“The place of culture in the history of Oyo State and the Yoruba nation cannot be overemphasised,” the commissioner stated, urging admirers and stakeholders to continue preserving and celebrating Barrister’s legacy.
In his address, Chairman of BarryFest, Alhaji Laide Olawunmi (FCA), described the unveiling as a day of immense pride, gratitude and history.
He said the monument represented another remarkable milestone in the life and legacy of the late Fuji pioneer.
“Today, history is being made once again,” Olawunmi declared.
He described Barrister as a trailblazer, innovator and visionary who transformed Nigerian music and elevated Fuji to international prominence.
According to him, Barrister was among the earliest indigenous musicians to successfully internationalise his music, taking Fuji to audiences across Europe, America and other parts of the world.
Olawunmi highlighted several honours received by the music legend, including the national award of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR), the Key to the City of Providence in the United States, honorary citizenship of Rhode Island, and numerous local and international recognitions.
He noted that the monument marked another historic achievement for the late musician.
“Aare (Dr.) Sikiru Ayinde Barrister becomes the first Nigerian musician and recording artist to be honoured with a monument within the National Museum,” he said.
“This monument is not merely a structure of bricks and mortar; it is a symbol of excellence, creativity, innovation and cultural pride.”
He added that Barrister’s influence continued to resonate across the Fuji music industry sixteen years after his passing.
Olawunmi appreciated the management of the National Museum, BarryFest members, donors, supporters and friends of Barrister for making the project a reality.
Also speaking, President-General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Barrister Ajeniyi Ajewole, said the late Fuji icon remained a strong advocate of Yoruba culture and language through his music.
According to him, Barrister used music as a tool for teaching, entertainment and social commentary.
“His contributions to music and culture cannot be erased. Barrister deserves to be studied in our higher institutions because of his role in preserving culture and educating society,” Ajewole said.
He assured the organisers of the support of the CCII toward initiatives aimed at preserving Barrister’s legacy.
Ambassador Romoke Ayinde (Karomlee), in her remarks, expressed appreciation to the management of the National Museum of Unity for supporting cultural preservation.
She noted that Barrister’s music reflected virtually every aspect of human life, describing him as a cultural hero whose legacy continues to inspire generations.
According to her, the programme was organised to celebrate and immortalise the legendary Fuji musician whose influence and achievements remain unmatched in the history of Fuji music.
The unveiling of the monument marked a significant moment in Nigeria’s cultural history, reaffirming the enduring legacy of the late Fuji maestro and his invaluable contributions to music, culture and society.
Also speaking, Maroof Balogun, Son of the late legendary Fuji star described the programme as overwhelming, urging people to do good always, so that people will celebrate them and their good works later in life.
