Acting Governor of Oyo State, Barr. Bayo Lawal, has reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to promoting culture and tourism to achieve Governor ‘Seyi Makinde’s vision for an expanded and diversified economy. Lawal made this statement at the closing ceremony of the 2024 World Sango Festival held at the Festival Arena, Aafin Oyo, Oyo State.
He noted that “the designation of the festival as a UNESCO Heritage was a great achievement for the state” and pledged continued support for religious harmony, peace, and the promotion of tradition and cultural heritage.
Lawal emphasized that “culture and tourism are intertwined and interrelated” and that the Sango Festival will continue to gain recognition due to this connection. He expressed delight at the fulfillment of Governor Makinde’s promises made during the 2023 campaign, including the declaration of Isese Day as a holiday on August 20.
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The Acting Governor acknowledged the significance of the Sango Festival, which showcases Yoruba culture and attracts tourists, thereby contributing to the state’s revenue generation. He stated, “I am delighted because today’s event is a fulfillment of the promises that Governor Makinde made in 2023 when we were campaigning for a second term in office.”
Honourable Minister for Art, Culture and Creative Economy, Barr. Hannatu Musawa, assured the Oyo State Government of her Ministry’s support for the initiatives, emphasizing the President Tinubu administration’s commitment to safeguarding and promoting Nigeria’s cultural heritage. She noted that “this recognition by UNESCO is not just a milestone for Oyo State, the Yoruba people, and the Kingdom of Oyo but a victory for Nigeria.”
The Minister congratulated the Oyo community on the UNESCO recognition, which she described as a victory for Nigeria, affirming the global significance of the country’s rich traditions and cultural expressions. She praised the dedication and efforts of the Oyo community in preserving the legacy of Sango, stating that “your dedication, passion, and relentless efforts have ensured that the legacy of Sango lives on, passed from generation to generation, unbroken and unblemished.”
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The event was attended by dignitaries, including diplomats from Portugal, Spain, Brazil, and Cuba, as well as government officials and stakeholders. The success of the festival was attributed to Governor Makinde’s administration, which has fulfilled the need to use culture and tourism to drive the growth of the state’s economy under Omituntun 2.0.
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