TC Awards 2024: A night of Yoruba excellence and cultural celebration

On Saturday, October 21, 2024, over 1,200 distinguished guests gathered at the beautiful Efua Sutherland Children's Park in Accra for the much-anticipated TC Awards Banquet Dinner. The event, which brought together leaders, scholars, entertainers, and cultural icons from around the world, was a resounding tribute to the extraordinary contributions of the Yoruba community in Ghana and beyond.

It was a night filled with heartfelt recognition, cultural performances, and a reaffirmation of the profound impact of the Yoruba people on their host countries.

What is the Tribute Concert and Awards (TC Awards)

The TC Awards, a biennial celebration founded by Olansile Abayomi, aims to shine a spotlight on the outstanding achievements of Yoruba individuals—Ghanaian, Nigerian, and from the global diaspora—who have made significant contributions in their respective fields. The TC Awards seeks to promote positive narratives about the Yoruba community, fostering unity, pride, and recognition of their cultural heritage.

The evening's festivities commenced with a warm reception, offering an array of traditional Yoruba delicacies that provided a rich taste of the culture. Guests from across Ghana, Nigeria, Benin, Togo, the United Kingdom, the United States, and other regions mingled and reflected on the significance of the event: to celebrate the legacy of Yoruba heroes whose influence has shaped societies across the globe.

Among the distinguished guests were several notable ambassadors, including: His Excellency Amb. Jules Armand Aniambossou, Ambassador of France; His Excellency Amb. Joao Baptista Domingos Quiosa, Ambassador of Angola; His Excellency Amb. Oumar Konate, Ambassador of Mali; His Excellency Amb. Fortunato Albrinho, High Commissioner of the Republic of Mozambique.

Their participation further emphasized the international reach of the Yoruba community and the importance of fostering cross-cultural diplomacy and collaboration.

Opening Remarks by Alhaji Chief Tunde Azeez Yahya

The evening commenced with a warm welcome from Alhaji Chief Tunde Azeez Yahya, the National President of the Yoruba Community Ghana. He expressed his pride in the remarkable achievements of the Yoruba people, both in Ghana and the wider diaspora.

“We are gathered here today not just to celebrate the accomplishments of individuals, but to recognize the collective strength of the Yoruba community,” he said. “Our community continues to excel across various fields, and events like the TC Awards allow us to showcase our rich cultural heritage and the positive impact we are making globally. We are proud to honor the contributions of those who have paved the way for future generations.”

Awards Ceremony

The highlight of the evening was the awards ceremony, which honored distinguished individuals across several categories, including Trade and Commerce, Education, Healthcare, Arts and Culture, Leadership, and Humanitarian Service.

Honorees included individuals who have left indelible marks in their communities, breaking barriers, and advancing the social and economic development of their host nations.

Notable Awardees

Alhaji Shaibu Alawiye (Posthumous) – A revered Islamic scholar and community leader who played a pivotal role in promoting education and unity in both Nigeria and Ghana.

Chief Amida Brimah (Posthumous) – A key figure in the development of the Yoruba and Muslim communities in Ghana.

Dr. Abdulai Oluwatoyin Peregrino-Brimah – A renowned medical doctor and philanthropist dedicated to improving healthcare in West Africa.

Professor Raji M. Ayinla – A distinguished academic and leader in healthcare, whose contributions have impacted the medical profession worldwide.

Alhaji Dawood Akanni Agbeniga – A prominent businessman and philanthropist, who has long been a unifying force in Ghana’s Yoruba and Zongo communities.

Alhaja Chief Taye Amudalatu Akwele Opare Addo Kundow – A leader, advocate for women's empowerment and philanthropy.

Mrs. Yetunde Abdulkarim – A selfless humanitarian who received the Yoruba Hero of Excellence Award for donating one of her kidneys to her husband, the iconic singer Eadris Abdulkareem demonstrating incredible love, sacrifice, and resilience in her commitment to preserving life.

Alhaji Chief Abdul Lateef Olumegbon – The Chief Amuludun of Ghana, who was recognized for his immense philanthropy, including the donation of over 30,000 books to students in Ghana, furthering education and empowering future generations.

Mr. Gedion Oltunde Igbasan – The CEO of Sewia Mining Ltd, who was honored for his outstanding contribution to the Ghanaian economy, particularly in the mining sector, and for his leadership in driving sustainable economic development in the region.

Mr. Comlan Fagbemon – The Mayor of Bante, Benin Republic, who was recognized for his leadership and dedicated service to the development of his community and region.

Cultural Performances and Celebrations

The atmosphere was further electrified by performances from some of the most beloved Yoruba artists. Apeke Ajobata, Orisa, Lacasera Fuji, and Mr. Naths graced the stage, while the legendary Alhaji Alao Adekunle Malaika closed the night with an unforgettable performance that left guests enthralled. His music, filled with powerful rhythms and deep Yoruba cultural themes, was a fitting tribute to the heritage that the TC Awards aims to celebrate.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Yoruba Excellence

The TC Awards has quickly become a key event on the African cultural calendar, and the second edition in 2024 is set to build on its success. This year’s event will culminate in a landmark summit, bringing together Yoruba leaders and influencers from around the world to discuss the socio-economic impact of the Yoruba diaspora, particularly in shaping the future of their host countries. The summit will feature key discussions on leadership, entrepreneurship, education, and the role of the Yoruba people in global development.

A Legacy of Leadership and Service

Among the most prominent figures recognized at the event was Alhaji Chief Dawood Akanni Mohammed Agbeniga, who not only served as the chairman of the TC Awards ceremony but also received the prestigious Great Yoruba Heroes of Excellence Award. Alhaji Dawood, a visionary businessman, philanthropist, and community leader, has played a key role in bridging cultural and diplomatic relations between Ghana and other African nations. His influence is felt across multiple sectors, from business to education, and his contributions continue to uplift communities, especially youth, across West Africa.

In a moving moment, the family of the late Alhaji Shaibu Adisa Alawiye accepted the Yoruba Heroes of Excellence Award on his behalf. Alhaji Alawiye, whose legacy spans generations in both Nigeria and Ghana, was recognized posthumously for his groundbreaking work in religious education, trade, and community leadership. His story serves as a testament to the lasting impact of Yoruba culture and its far-reaching influence.

Closing Remarks from the Chairman of the Planning Committee

In closing, HRH Dr. Oluwamayowa Jose, the Alaaye of Dome-Kwabenya, expressed profound gratitude to all those who contributed to the success of the evening. As Chairman of the TC Awards Planning Committee, he highlighted the importance of unity and cultural pride in building a better future for the Yoruba people, both in Ghana and the diaspora.

“We are gathered here tonight not only to celebrate individual achievements but to honor the collective strength of the Yoruba community. This event marks a pivotal moment in recognizing the legacies of those who have contributed to the growth and prosperity of their societies. Let us continue to uplift one another and work together to create a brighter future for the generations to come.”

Dr. Jose's remarks resonated deeply with attendees, inspiring them to continue their efforts toward the development of their communities and the preservation of their rich heritage.

A Call to Continue the Journey

As the evening came to a close, guests left with a renewed sense of purpose and pride in the Yoruba community's rich history and future. The TC Awards Banquet Dinner was not just a celebration—it was a call to action for the Yoruba people to continue advancing in all spheres of life, united in the pursuit of excellence.

The TC Awards is more than just an event. It is a movement dedicated to honoring the Yoruba legacy, uplifting those who contribute to the development of society, and inspiring future generations to continue the work of the heroes before them.