The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to leveraging Nigeria’s cultural heritage to drive national prosperity, as showcased during the colourful 2025 edition of the Ojude Oba festival held in Ijebu Ode on Sunday.
Speaking at the festival, the Minister of Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hanatu Musawa, affirmed President Bola Tinubu’s determination to make Nigeria “the greatest black nation on earth” by tapping into the power of culture and creativity.
Musawa noted that the Tinubu-led administration is prepared to collaborate with state governments and the private sector to develop the nation’s tourism sector, which she said would create jobs, boost the economy, and promote national development.
> “President Bola Tinubu is strongly committed to making us the greatest black nation on earth; to making us one of the strongest economies,” Musawa said.
“One of the ways he wants to do it is for us to leverage and tap into the opportunities that abound in the cultural and creative landscape.”
She also commended the people of Ijebu land for preserving and showcasing a rich cultural tradition through the Ojude Oba celebration. She hailed the Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebu land, Oba Sikiru Adetona, for his role in upholding the cultural values of the Ijebu people.
While the revered monarch, aged 91, was absent from this year’s event due to age-related reasons, he was ably represented by his wife, Olori Kemi Adetona.
Musawa stressed the need for sustained collaboration between the federal and Ogun State governments to further promote and export the Ijebu cultural identity to the world.
“This is a beautiful culture. This is a culture that we must continue to export and use as a form of economic expansion,” she said.
In his remarks, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun described Ojude Oba as more than a cultural celebration, calling it a “living heritage” that fosters economic growth and national unity.
“Ojude Oba is more than a festival, it is a living heritage; it connects us to our roots and offers direction for a rapidly changing world,” Abiodun said.
“From the beautiful parade of the Regberegbe to the majestic display of the horse riders, the Ojude Oba festival is a vibrant display of our beautiful culture, our pride, values and our continuity.”
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to promoting culture and tourism as key drivers of economic transformation in the state.
“Festivals like Ojude Oba are crucial to my administration’s vision to develop the tourism sector, create more economic opportunities and attract global visibility.”
Among dignitaries present were Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State (represented by his deputy, Dr. Olayide Adelami), former Ogun State governor Gbenga Daniel, Senator Shuaib Salisu, Deputy Governor Noimot Salako-Oyedele, the Asiwaju of Ijebu land, Sulaiman Adegunwa, Ogbeni Oja Dr. Sunny Kuku, and Speaker Daisi Elemide, among others.
One of the major sponsors, Rite Foods, also made a strong showing at the event. The company’s Director of Corporate Affairs and Sustainability stated that over 21,000 people were in attendance and were served various products from the brand.
“We are passionate about enhancing the socio-economic well-being of our communities and the preservation of the beautiful culture of our dear nation,” he said.
The Ojude Oba festival, held annually on the third day after Eid-el-Kabir, brings together Ijebu sons and daughters, who dress in vibrant attire to pay homage to the Awujale. The event continues to serve as a platform for promoting Nigeria’s rich cultural diversity and unity.
Do you have a story to share? Want to advertise with us? Or perhaps you need publicity for a product, service, or event?
Contact us:WhatsApp: +2348165713606 Email: nationalreports001@gmail.com
We'd love to hear from you!"
