The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced plans to list the annual Ojude Oba Festival as a UNESCO-backed event, highlighting its significance in fostering national unity and showcasing Nigeria’s tourism potential. This was revealed by the Minister of Culture, Arts, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa-Musawa, during the 2024 edition of the festival held at the Awujale’s pavilion in Ijebu-Ode.
Represented by Dr. Ben Ugo Anama, Director of Cultural Agencies and Heritage, the minister emphasized that the Ojude Oba Festival aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. The festival, themed “Ojude Oba: Unity and Harmony, Our Gift,” underscores the Federal Government’s commitment to promoting cultural heritage and diversifying the economy through tourism. Musa-Musawa outlined the ministry’s ambitious goal of generating over $100 billion in tourism revenue by 2030, in line with the vision for “Destination 2030.”
The minister described the Ojude Oba Festival as a crucial platform for national unity and economic diversification, stating that it holds immense potential for boosting tourism and increasing Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product. She highlighted the government’s dedication to collaborating with stakeholders to preserve and promote Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage.
Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State also spoke at the event, praising the festival for giving Ijebuland and Ogun State a distinct identity and serving as a catalyst for regional development. He pledged to work with the Federal Government to elevate the festival to a global tourist attraction. Governor Abiodun emphasized the importance of unity and harmony for societal progress and called for collective efforts to overcome the nation’s challenges.
The festival featured over 100 age-grade groups, known as Regberegbes, dressed in vibrant attire, who paid homage to the Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona. Horse riders from warrior families in Ijebuland also entertained attendees with acrobatic displays.
In summary, the Ojude Oba Festival is being positioned as a key cultural event with the potential to significantly contribute to Nigeria’s tourism industry and foster national unity. The Federal Government’s efforts to secure UNESCO backing for the festival reflect its broader strategy to diversify the economy and enhance cultural heritage preservation.