Ogun Gov. Dapo Abiodun has highlighted the crucial role of festivals like the Ojude Oba in boosting the local economy and gaining global visibility.
Speaking at this year’s Ojude Oba Festival in Ijebu-Ode on Sunday, Abiodun affirmed his administration’s commitment to promoting cultural heritage, not just for the Ijebu people but for the enrichment of all humanity.
“This celebration aligns seamlessly with our administration’s development philosophy in building our future together agenda,” he stated.
He emphasized that “Festivals like Ojude Oba are critical in this vision to promote the local economy, attract global visibility, and fortify our cultural capital. Our cultural heritage is a powerful tool for national development.”
Abiodun described the Ojude Oba festival as a powerful symbol of communal harmony where religion, tradition, and modernity coexist under a shared identity.
He noted that the festival has evolved from a simple celebration into a living heritage, connecting roots and offering direction in a world increasingly marked by social fragmentation.
“Ojude Oba is a vibrant fulcrum of a beautiful culture, our pride, our value, and our continuity.”
Referring to this year’s theme, “Ojude Oba: Celebrating Our Roots, Preserving Our Future,” Abiodun remarked that it perfectly captures the essence of the gathering.
He also observed that the festival has successfully captured the attention of youths both locally and abroad.
“This festival has outgrown this place, and we must do something about it,” he declared, emphasizing that Ojude Oba has become a dynamic entity fostering tourism, youth engagement, and entrepreneurship.
He reiterated his administration’s determination to expand its reach and impact.
Ondo Governor Lucky Ayedatiwa, represented by his Deputy, Mr. Olayide Adelani, conveyed goodwill messages.
He described culture as a dynamic vehicle for economic development, promoting tourism, local enterprise, job creation, and attracting foreign investors.
He praised the Ojude Oba festival for setting the gold standard for African culture, calling it not just a celebration but also a means of unity and peace-building.
The governor urged for the festival’s projection beyond the state to harness its potential for national socio-economic development.
Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts, Hanatu Musa, in her remarks, acknowledged Nigeria’s rich cultural diversity, which has transcended generations and is even practiced globally.
She disclosed that the federal government is collaborating with state governments to leverage each state’s unique culture for national development.
The Minister noted Ogun State’s significant historical place through its prominent sons and daughters, stressing the time has come to explore and tap into culture’s offerings for the country.
She expressed hope that the festival would continue to grow, attracting more foreign tourists.
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