Sango Festival Receives UNESCO World Heritage Inscription Certificate

August 16, 2025

By Ayinde Adeleke

The Minister of Art, Culture and Creative Economy, Hon. Hannatu Musa Musawa, has officially presented the UNESCO World Heritage inscription certificate for the Sango Festival to His Imperial Majesty, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, the Alaafin of Òyó, and the Òyó State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatunbosun.

The historic presentation took place during the vibrant celebrations of the annual Sango Festival in Òyó, a cultural event that draws global attention for its rich heritage, artistic displays, and traditional significance.

Speaking at the ceremony, Hon. Musawa described the UNESCO recognition as a landmark achievement that places the Sango Festival on the world stage, affirming its value as a cultural treasure of humanity. She commended the custodians of tradition in Òyó for preserving the festival’s authenticity and encouraged Nigerians to take pride in their cultural heritage.

The Alaafin of Òyó, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, while receiving the certificate, expressed gratitude to UNESCO and the Federal Government of Nigeria for the honor, noting that the recognition will further promote tourism, scholarship, and global appreciation of Yoruba traditions.

On his part, Òyó State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatunbosun, assured that the state government remains committed to supporting cultural festivals as part of its drive to boost tourism, job creation, and community development.

The Sango Festival, which celebrates the historical Alaafin Sango and Imole Sango—revered as the Orisa of lightning and thunder in Yorùbá cosmology—has now joined the exclusive list of globally recognized cultural events, strengthening Nigeria’s cultural footprint on the world map