Ojude Oba Festival: A Catalyst for Ijebuland’s Development, Says Governor Abiodun

By: Emmanuel Ibitoye

Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State has heralded the Ojude Oba Festival as a pivotal force for the development of Ijebuland, pledging to elevate the celebration to a global scale.

Speaking at this year’s festival on Tuesday in Ijebu-Ode, Governor Abiodun highlighted the festival’s evolution from a local gathering to an event of international repute. He emphasized its role in promoting unity, tourism, and economic growth within the region.

“Ojude Oba 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,” the governor stated.

The governor underlined the festival’s importance as a unifying symbol for the Ijebu people, reflecting their collective values of hard work, dedication, and industry. He noted that such cultural events are crucial in preserving traditions for future generations.

“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,” Abiodun said. “It has become a catalyst for the development of Ijebuland, and this undoubtedly underscores the importance of preserving our traditions for future generations.”

Governor Abiodun also expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his interest in expanding the festival, with plans to include it in UNESCO’s World Cultural Heritage list. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to creating a conducive environment for business and tourism to thrive.

“Our administration is deeply committed to supporting the initiative to make it a permanent event in the global tourism industry,” he said.

The governor called for harmony and unity among the Ijebu people, urging them to cooperate towards building a robust state. He pointed out that events like the Ojude Oba Festival offer an opportunity for reflection and forward planning.

“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,” Abiodun concluded.

Chief Olu Okuboyejo, Chairman of the 2024 Ojude Oba Festival, expressed his appreciation to Governor Abiodun for his unwavering support. He also thanked the attendees for their enthusiastic participation, which contributed to the success of the event.