At the well-attended and colourful Ojude Oba festival in Ijebu Ode on Sunday, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo state urged international organisations, corporate organisations and policy-makers to pay attention to the tourism industry in Nigeria as a driver for sustainable economic development.
The governor, who was represented by his deputy, Olayide Adelami, acknowledged the role of tourism and entertainment in job creation, foreign direct investment and nation building.
According to him, “Beyond its glamour, colour, and pageantry, Ojude Oba is a powerful symbol of unity, heritage, and continuity. It is also an eloquent demonstration of the immense potential our traditions hold, not only as a cultural treasure but also as a dynamic vehicle for socio-economic development.
“Festivals like this are strategic drivers of local and international tourism. They stimulate hospitality, transport, fashion, entertainment, and trade.
“They also create jobs, boost local enterprises, and attract both domestic and foreign investment. The economic ripple effects of Ojude Oba extend far beyond the borders of Ijebu-land, contributing meaningfully to the GDP of Ogun state and, by extension, to Nigeria’s economy”
He commended the efforts of the planning committee of the festival, saying Ojude Oba remains one of the most popular and colourful festivals in Africa.
“Permit me to commend you all for keeping our rich culture and heritage vibrantly alive, and for elevating Ojude Oba to global prominence. No doubt, this festival stands tall as one of the most iconic and celebrated cultural events on the African continent. It is a true honour to be part of this grand celebration today” the governor said.
The governor congratulated the Awujale and paramount ruler of Ijebu-land, Oba Sikiru Adetona, Ogun state government, all sons and daughters of Ijebu on a successful outing.
In his address, the governor of Ogun state, Dapo Abiodun, emphasized the critical role of festivals like Ojude Oba in stimulating local economy and attracting foreign investment.
He said, “In line with our economic development blueprint, Ojude Oba has been designated a flagship cultural event” adding that the state has planned to elevate the festival to global standard while it remains “authentically Ijebu”
“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.” the governor emphasized.
He described Ojude Oba as a symbol of communal harmony, where religion, tradition, and modernity coexisted under a shared identity.
Remarking, minister of art, culture, tourism and creative economy, Hannatu Musa-Musawa, reiterated the commitment of President Bola Tinubu to the promotion of culture and tourism as a lever for economic growth.
Highlights of the event was a chain of parades by the ‘Regberegbes’ and others, who, in their classy traditional attires, paid homage to the Awujale of Ijebu-land.
John Paul Akinduro,
Press Secretary to Ondo State Governor
(Office of the Deputy Governor)
June 8, 2025
