May 16, 2025
By Ayinde Adeleke
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to promoting culture and tradition in the state.
He stated this at the grand finale of the 2025 World Egungun Festival, held at the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium, Oke-Ado, Ibadan.
According to Governor Makinde, the promotion of culture and tourism is crucial for generating revenue and boosting the state’s economy.
“The display of culture here today has been very amazing. And, from this event, we can see that the Government is promoting culture and tourism, because both are intertwined,” he said.
The Governor emphasized that culture and tourism are inseparable, citing examples of developed countries where culture has significantly contributed to their economic growth.
“In other developed climes, culture is enough to expand the economy of a state and, as a government, we will work towards making Egungun Festival to generate revenue for the state,” he added.
Governor Makinde also highlighted his administration’s efforts to promote diverse religious practices, including declaring August 20th as Isese Day and allowing religious freedom for everyone as guaranteed by the constitution.
“We must not allow our culture to go into extinction and I am happy, because it is not only the old people that are here today. We can also see our youths here enjoying the moment.
“That is why we must continue to relive our culture,” he said.
The Governor commended the organizers and stakeholders for their efforts and encouraged them to focus on generating more revenue for the state.
“Let me also tell us that this government has been very lenient with people practising whatever religion they want. This government declared August 20th of every year as Isese Day, because we respect the freedom of religion,” he added.
The Chairman of the 2025 World Egungun Festival, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, described the festival as holding cultural and ancestral significance, offering special prayers for the development and prosperity of Ibadanland and Oyo State.
Other dignitaries, including the Osun State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon Ojo Abiodun, and the President, Oje Parapo Worldwide, Prince Adeola Adelakun, praised Governor Makinde’s leadership and initiative in promoting culture and tourism in the state.
