Orisa Studies in Nigeria
The Abeokuta Campus expands on the School of Orisa Studies experience. It introduces qualified students to the people and places where Orisa Lifestyle was born. Journeying to Nigeria, you'll encounter the culture, tradition, language, and stories that surprise, delight, and expand your practice. As you expand your view of the culture, you'll test the boundaries of who you are and what you're capable of achieving. You'll discover unknown abilities that fuel your confidence and empower you to seize new challenges.
Deepen Your Devotion, Expand Your Practice – Right at the Source
Whether you're seeking intimate small group chanting sessions (2–6 participants) or personalized, one-on-one ritual instruction, the Abeokuta Campus offers immersive programs designed to elevate your spiritual journey. Led by highly experienced native Yoruba priests and instructors, each course is crafted to meet your unique goals—ensuring you gain authentic, hands-on experience in Yoruba devotional and priestly practices.
Specifically designed for total immersion, our programs allow you to rapidly build fluency and confidence in your practice, surrounded by the living culture of Yoruba tradition.
Program Duration: 2–4 weeks
Each program includes full access to:
- Structured Worship & Ritual Calendar
- Ìjúbà – Foundational prayers and invocations
- Òríkì – Praise poetry and lineage recitations
- Ìwúre – Blessings and spiritual affirmations
- Èsè – Sacred verses and stories
- Òrìn – Devotional songs
- Ìtùtù – Cooling rites (using omi, òtí, èpo, etc.)
- Onjẹ – Ritual foods (èkó, èkuru, moinmoin, etc.)
- Èwé – Medicinal and ritual herbs
- Òsè – Traditional cleansing and spiritual maintenance
Come experience the power of tradition from its roots—immerse yourself fully, and leave transformed.
For Your Convenience:
• Airport pickup and drop off at Murtala Muhammed Airport in Lagos, Nigeria
• 24/7 support and local contact in Abeokuta
• All necessary class materials: pencils, notebooks, etc.
• Two meals daily
• Official certificate of course completion
ABEOKUTA
Abeokuta is the perfect place for full immersion. This is vibrant, authentic Yoruba town with a rich, ancient history. Abeokuta has its own way of life with very outgoing people and a safe, culturally rich environment.
The beautiful Abeokuta Campus is less than 10 minutes from Panseke, which has a bustling outdoor market that is busy day and night. We're also about 20 minutes away from Olumo Rock, which is perfect for enjoying everything the city offers for tourism and shopping.
THE CAMPUS
The Abeokuta Campus is built for comfort and inspiration. From the kitchen to the gardens to the dormitories, the Abeokuta Campus has been designed to create an ideal environment for studying and relaxing. Our hand-picked instructors will provide culturally specific education that reconnects African Americans with their ancestral roots and traditions. Students will experience high quality language and cultural education for Africans and by Africans.
EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING
Education Abroad is a unique learning experience. Being immersed in authentic African customs, traditions, and beliefs provides African Americans with answers to important questions about our heritage and identity. The best way to learn about Africa is in Africa!
EXCLUSIVE BENEFITS
As a prospective student at the Abeokuta Campus, you can expect a transformative learning experience that combines academic rigor with spiritual growth and cultural immersion. Here are some exclusive benefits of our program:
Learning Benefits:
In-depth knowledge of Orisa tradition: Gain a comprehensive understanding of Orisa Lifestyle, including Yoruba history, philosophy, and ritual proficiency.
Expert instruction: Learn from experienced professional educators, priests, and priestesses who are well-versed in the Orisa tradition.
Immersive environment: Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of West Africa, surrounded by like-minded individuals and supportive community.
Focused learning objectives: Achieve specific learning goals, with step-by-step instruction and personalized attention in a small group setting.
Personal Benefits:
Spiritual growth: Deepen your connection to Orisa Lifestyle and cultivate a stronger sense of purpose and meaning.
Cultural enrichment: Experience the rich cultural heritage of Yoruba land, broadening your perspective and fostering greater appreciation for Pan African diversity.
Community building: Connect with like-minded individuals, forming lasting bonds and a supportive network.
Personal transformation: Develop greater self-awareness, confidence, and emotional intelligence through immersive learning and spiritual practices.
Career and Life Benefits:
Preparation for initiation: Gain a solid foundation in Orisa Lifestyle, preparing you for initiation and a deeper commitment to the spiritual path.
Cultural competence: Develop a nuanced understanding of Yoruba culture, enhancing your ability to navigate diverse cultural contexts.
Professional development: Acquire valuable skills and knowledge, applicable to various careers, including education, cultural exchange, and spiritual leadership.
By studying at the Orisa Lifestyle Academy's Abeokuta Campus, you'll embark on a transformative journey that integrates academic learning, spiritual growth, and cultural immersion, empowering you to become a more informed, compassionate, and culturally sensitive individual.
EXPLORE. LEARN. IMPROVE THE WORLD.
To improve the world, you first have to experience the world. Since 2003, the Orisa Lifestyle Academy has been helping students like you explore, learn, and make an impact.
High-Quality Training
The Abeokuta Campus is more than an opportunity to travel. You’ll be participating in educational experiences designed to prepare future practitioners — like you — as thought leaders who are globally literate and involved.
International experience changes you. Through immersive language study, educational trips, intensive training, and cultural immersion, you'll experience Yoruba tradition, explore spectrum of ritual proficiency, and gain valuable understanding of ceremony. You’ll come home with a broader perspective, more readier than ever to meet your goals, define new directions for yourself, and thrive outside the shrine.
By the Orisa Lifestyle Academy for the School of Orisa Studies
The Abeokuta Campus was created for qualified students in the School of Orisa Studies. You will be in good hands in a program that is a seamless complement to your outstanding SOS education back home.
World-Class Health and Safety
The Orisa Lifestyle Academy provides support every step of the journey. From pre-departure through your entire overseas experience, your health and safety are on top of the agenda. We will provide you with a well-supported overseas learning environment where you can stretch your mind and your family can feel at ease back home.
Your Next Steps
So you’ve decided to study at the Abeokuta Campus? Great choice! As you can imagine, a lot goes into planning an educational abroad experience. The good news is that you will have help every step of the way. Let’s get started.
Review the Process
STEP 1: SET GOALS
10 MONTHS BEFORE DEPARTURE
What are your top interests and goals? Would you like to focus on the language? Are you passionate about ritual proficiency? Do you imagine getting lots of 1 on 1 attention? Remember, this is your study abroad. Think deeply about how you REALLY want to spend your time.
STEP 2: APPLY
GATHER AND UPLOAD FORMS 6-9 MONTHS BEFORE DEPARTURE
When you’re ready to apply, complete the online application. You should be prepared to upload proof of eligibility (e.g., videos, pictures of Ile Ori and Isefa Challenges), passport photos, or other documents. When your application is complete, you’ll be confirmed within two months.
STEP 3: FINANCES
SEVEN MONTHS BEFORE DEPARTURE SHOW YOUR FINANCIAL PLAN.
Finances can be stressful. But with proper planning, money won't be an obstacle. Start to budget and set money aside for your experience, including travel expenses and gifts. You may qualify for an Asuwada loan when you study abroad. So, don't wait until the last minute.
STEP 4: PLAN
COMPLETE PRE-DEPARTURE CHECKLIST FIVE MONTHS BEFORE DEPARTURE.
Once the Orisa Lifestyle Academy confirms your spot, you’re ready for the next phase: pre-departure! You will need to get a visa, visit a health clinic, and complete other actions by certain dates. All of the necessary steps will be available in a handy online checklist. At this stage, a personal advising team will also be available to offer direction and answer questions by phone and email.
STEP 5: REGISTER
FINALIZE PLANS ABROAD
FOUR MONTHS BEFORE DEPARTURE, you will focus on finalizing plans. This includes securing your flight itinerary, making deposits and other logistic details. The Orisa Lifestyle Academy will let you know exactly what to do.
STEP 6: PACK
PREPARE FOR DEPARTURE
It’s almost travel time! With only two more months before departure, you’re ready to get REALLY organized. Review the arrival instructions so you know what to expect while traveling, what to bring and what NOT to bring. Save important phone numbers, addresses, and directions. Make backup copies of important documents. Finally, don’t forget things like prescription medications, insurance, and other necessities for a safe and healthy time abroad.
