The Federal Government of Nigeria is set to pursue the inclusion of the annual Ojude Oba Festival in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State, on the list of festivals backed by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO).
This announcement was made by the Minister of Culture, Art and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa-Musawa, through her representative, Dr. Ben Anama, Director of Cultural Agencies and Heritage, during the festival’s celebration on Tuesday at the Awujale’s pavilion in Ijebu-Ode.
Musa-Musawa emphasized that this initiative is in alignment with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda for the ministry, which aims to elevate revenue generation from tourism to over $100 billion by 2030. She highlighted the festival’s potential to contribute significantly to the diversification of Nigeria’s economy by tapping into the tourism sector.
The Ojude Oba Festival, celebrated every third day of Eid-el-Adha, is a vibrant showcase of the rich cultural heritage and endowments of the people of Ijebuland.
This year’s theme, “Ojude Oba: Unity and Harmony, Our Gift,” reflects the festival’s role in fostering unity amidst Nigeria’s diversity. The event saw the participation of over 100 age-grade groups, known as Regberegbes, who paid homage to the traditional ruler, the Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona. The colorful attires and ceremonial displays, including acrobatic performances by horse riders from warrior families, added to the festival’s grandeur.
The minister described the Ojude Oba Festival as a crucial platform for national unity and a significant tourism potential that could enhance economic diversification from oil dependency.
“The status of a festival like Ojude Oba, with its profound impacts on the tourism sector of the country, deserves to be listed by the international body,” Musa-Musawa stated, promising to expedite the processes required for UNESCO recognition.
Governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun, also graced the event and extolled the Ojude Oba Festival for bestowing a distinct identity upon Ijebuland and the people of Ogun State. He noted that the festival serves as a catalyst for the region’s development and underscored the importance of preserving cultural heritage.
The Federal Government’s commitment to elevating the Ojude Oba Festival to international recognition reflects a broader strategy to leverage Nigeria’s rich cultural traditions for economic growth.
By aligning with global cultural standards, the government aims to enhance the visibility and attractiveness of Nigerian festivals, thereby boosting tourism and contributing to sustainable economic development.
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