Tunde Kelani Hosts Lukman Omikunle, Temitayo Agemo-Okuboyejo, Reflects on His Journey, Legacy, and Future of Yoruba Culture

Tunde Kelani (TK) during deep conversation with Lukman Omikunle and Engr. Temitayo Agemo-Okuboyejo

Legendary filmmaker and cultural icon, Tunde Kelani, hosted project management and media consultant, Mr. Lukman Omikunle and political leader Engr. Temitayo Agemo-Okuboyejo at his serene Abeokuta home on Monday, August 4, 2025, in what became an enriching and deeply reflective conversation on his life, legacy, and vision for the Yoruba people.

Now aged 77, Kelani—fondly called TK—is widely respected not just as a pioneer of Nigerian cinema, but as a tireless custodian of Yoruba cultural heritage. During the visit, the filmmaker opened up about his unconventional path into storytelling, his early rejection of university education in favor of photography, and the deliberate decisions that shaped his life’s work.

“I chose photography over university because I felt an urgent need to capture, document, and preserve our stories. That decision was rooted in my desire to see that the Yoruba culture doesn’t fade into oblivion,” TK revealed during the discussion.

He shared how the transition from photography into motion picture was a natural evolution, driven by his urge to amplify African narratives—unfiltered and uncolonized.

Kelani lamented the erosion of key Yoruba traditions, especially among the younger generation. He noted that many vital customs, languages, and communal values are disappearing, urging a collective effort to revive them before they’re lost forever.

TK with Engr. Temitayo Agemo-Okuboyejo

“The future of the Yoruba race depends on how well we preserve our cultural DNA,” he said, expressing hope that more youths would begin to embrace their roots and reflect that in their personal and public lives.

The visit coincided with a private screening of his latest film, Cordelia, which continues in TK’s tradition of crafting thought-provoking stories that celebrate identity, community, and the complex layers of African life.

In a heartfelt tribute, Lukman Omikunle shared his admiration for the filmmaker:

TK with Lukman Omikunle

“Sitting with Tunde Kelani is like immersing oneself in a rare spring of wisdom and cultural depth. More than just a cinematic icon, TK embodies humility, vision, and an unrelenting passion for reviving and preserving the rich traditions of the Yoruba race.”

“At 77, he remains a creative force—still pushing boundaries in filmmaking with unmatched clarity and purpose. Watching Cordelia was a joy and privilege. Thank you, sir, for continuing to light the path for storytellers across the continent,” he added.

Omikunle concluded with prayers for TK’s continued strength, wisdom, and good health, underscoring how impactful his legacy has been to Nigeria’s cultural and creative landscape.

As the conversation wrapped up, it was clear that Tunde Kelani’s legacy is far from complete. His mission to document, educate, and inspire through storytelling remains alive—and his lens, ever focused on the soul of Africa.