A custodian of culture from Brazil, Oba Awurela, Kabiyesi Sangokunle Adekunle Alayande, paid a courtesy visit to the Honourable Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr Wasiu Olatunbosun, Tuesday.
Oba Awurela, a paternal descendant of Awe in Oyo said their mission was to propagate the image of his paternal household and further build cultural ties between Oyo State and Brazil. The monarch sought the collaboration of the Oyo State Government in the celebration of Brazilian Black Heritage Day, otherwise known as ‘Searchie November’ which is a yearly celebration to commemorate Brazil’s freedom from the Europeans.
Speaking further on the existing cultural integration, Oba Awurela said Brazil and all Diaspora in South America, have Academy Education that integrates religion and cultural heritage. He spoke of the plan to create Oyo Empire in Brazil which will be known as ‘OYOTEDO’.
The Honourable Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr Wasiu Olatunbosun, in his response, appreciated the delegation for the visit and for the hand of fellowship extended to Oyo State. He lauded Oba Awurela for his plans to expand the frontiers of tourism in Oyo State using culture as a tool, which will, in turn, boost revenue in the State.
Olatunbosun shed light on the mapped-out strategies to drive tourism in the State through cultural heritage and called for further international investment and cooperation to harness the state’s tourism potential.
Also in the delegation was Pa Tunde Odunlade, a custodian of Arts and culture in Ibadan, Oyo State.
Source: Oyo State Ministry of Culture and Tourism
