The Governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun, said that the Ojude Oba Festival has served as a catalyst for the development of Ijebuland.
With this, Abiodun stated, his administration intends to make the Ojude Oba festival a global event.
The governor announced this on Tuesday during the year’s celebration in Ijebu-Ode, noting that the yearly event has evolved from a simple gathering of Ijebu residents to one that draws both national and worldwide audiences.
He revealed that the festivities, which have become a tourist attraction, embodies and reflect the people’s collective togetherness achieved through hard labour, commitment, and industry.
He said:
“Ojude Oba festival is not only a cultural heritage for the indigenes of Ijebuland but has now become a significant event that attracts local and foreign tourists to Ogun State, showcasing our hospitality and enviable tradition of Ijebuland to the national and global audience.
“This festival serves as a symbol of our unity, tourism and a rallying point for all the Ijebu sons and daughters to celebrate the life and times of our tradition, culture, and revered monarch.
“It has become a catalyst for the development of Ijebuland, and this undoubtedly underscores the importance of preserving our traditions for future generations.
“By standing for unity and harmony, we elevate our community and set an example for others to follow. The essence of unity and harmony in Ijebuland can be seen willingly in cultural events like this festival.
“Our administration is deeply committed to supporting the initiative to make it a permanent event in the global tourism industry.”
While applauding President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his enthusiasm in growing the event, particularly with intentions to add it on UNESCO’s World Cultural Heritage list, the governor stated that his administration was dedicated to creating a favourable climate for business to prosper.
According to him, the occasion allows the Ijebu to think and plan for the future, and he calls for harmony and togetherness, stating that it is time to work together to establish a virile state.
“The state government will continue to create a conducive atmosphere for community development across the state and I solicit the support of the people, especially all the sons and daughters towards the 20th National Sports Festival, Gateway Games, 2024, part of which will be hosted right here in Ijebu-Ode,” the governor stated.
Chief Olu Okuboyejo, chairman of the 2024 Ojude Oba festival, thanked the governor for his support and the crowd for attending in large numbers.
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cc: Daily Post Ng
