Legendary Nigerian artist and researcher, Zainab Odemwingie, has urged Africans to prioritise the preservation of folklore in order to protect cultural identity and prevent traditional values from being eroded by globalisation.
Odemwingie made the call in Lagos on Thursday, stressing the importance of safeguarding indigenous stories and customs for future generations. She explained that Nigeria’s rich folklore must be preserved to ensure authentic transmission of cultural practices, promote cultural consciousness, and strengthen community ties.
“The Western world celebrates Cinderella and Princess Elsa. But where are our African fairy tales, dolls, and storybooks that reflect our royalty, folklore, and cultural identity?” she asked.
She highlighted her flagship initiative, My African Baby, which focuses on preserving African heritage through storytelling, education, and creative expression for both young audiences and the wider global community.
Her acclaimed works—Ivie Ogho, Faces of Ancestry, Fulani Elegance, and Echoes Across the Humber—serve as powerful visual narratives that connect history with contemporary African identity. According to her, folklore represents more than history; it embodies identity, resilience, and courage.
Beyond painting, Odemwingie has also embraced comics and virtual reality to engage younger audiences, making African heritage more accessible through digital platforms. She noted that her published works explore how traditional stories can be preserved through technology, keeping culture relevant and adaptable for future generations.
Influenced by masters such as Bruce Onobrakpeya and Vincent van Gogh, Odemwingie said she views art not only as a form of expression but also as a responsibility to safeguard cultural identity.
Through her work, she aims to reintroduce Benin folklore and African heritage to younger generations at risk of losing touch with their ancestral wisdom. “At the heart of it all is this truth: our heritage must be protected. Through art and research, I’m committed to preserving our courage, wisdom, and cultural legacy,” she said.