Rep. Debra Bazemore to Honor Yoruba Elder Statesman and Scholar Professor Banji Akintoye at Georgia State Capitol

ATLANTA - State Representative Debra Bazemore (D-South Fulton) will honor Professor Banji Akintoye, a Yoruba elder statesman and scholar, with an African reception event and House resolution on Thursday, January 22, 2026, from 1:30 - 3:30 p.m. in room 216 of the Georgia State Capitol.

Sponsored by Rep. Bazemore, this resolution seeks to recognize his lifetime of scholarship, public service and global leadership in African and African American studies. It also seeks to recognize Professor Akintoye's contributions to education, history, public service and the preservation and promotion of Yoruba heritage.

Professor Akintoye is respected as one of the foremost historians of the Yoruba people and an intellectual voice on African history, governance and self-determination. Over the course of several decades, he has served as a professor, visiting professor and academic founder at universities in Nigeria, the United States and abroad, including contributions to the establishment of African and African American Studies programs at American institutions.

His published works include Revolution and Power Politics in Yorubaland; Emergent States of Africa; A History of the Yoruba People; and An Outline of Yoruba History and The Yoruba People: Profile of the Foremost Black Nation. Several of his books have been used as texts in university African Studies programs. He has also contributed to peer-reviewed journals, edited volumes and international academic conferences.

Professor Akintoye also served as a Nigerian Senator from 1979 to 1983 and was an architect of one of Nigeria's respected political platforms, advocating unity, good governance, education and social development.

Throughout his life, he has been a voice for peaceful coexistence, respect for diversity and rational political structures that promote stability and prosperity across Africa. The Capitol event seeks to bring together attendees from across the United States and Europe, reflecting Professor Akintoye's global influence and the growing engagement of the Yoruba diaspora. In addition to honoring his legacy, the gathering seeks to unify the Yoruba people worldwide and raise awareness of Yoruba history, culture and heritage for future generations.

Members of the public, community leaders, scholars and members of the African and African American diaspora are invited to attend. The event will include food and refreshments.

WHO: State Representative Debra Bazemore (D-South Fulton)

WHAT: African Reception Event

WHEN: Thursday, January 22, 2026, from 1:30 - 3:30 p.m.

WHERE: Georgia State Capitol, Room 216, 206 Washington Street S.W., Atlanta, GA 30334

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