No doubt, for Oyo State and Nigeria as a whole to move from consumption-driven economy to fully productive one, indigenous content and vendors have critical role to play.
Against this background, an indigene of Oyo State, Mr Idris Animasaun has taken it upon himself to call the attention of Oyo State Governor, Engr Seyi Makinde why indigenous content and vendors should be included at government events.
His open letter came barely 48hours after Governor Seyi Makinde took oath of office for second term at the expansive Liberty Stadium.
Below is the letter;
Your Excellency,
I am writing to you to express my concern about the lack of inclusion of indigenous content and vendors at state government events. As a resident of Oyo state, I believe it is important that we celebrate and showcase the rich talent and capacity of our state, and this can only be achieved if we actively seek to include indigenous content and vendors in our events.
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Oyo State is blessed with a diverse range of cultures, traditions, practices and talents that make it unique. However, it is unfortunate that these are often overlooked or sidelined at state government events in favor of more mainstream or commercial options or favouritism. This not only deprives Ibadan-based vendors and businesses of much-needed exposure and revenue, but also denies attendees the opportunity to experience the richness and diversity of our state.
I therefore urge you to take proactive steps to ensure that indigenous content and vendors are included in all state government events. This could be achieved through initiatives such as giving the opportunity of specific operations such as event planners, event decorators, drinks vendors, MCs, DJs, Skitmakers, Ushers, Bouncers which indeed we have very competent hands that has not only done well for themselves but also put Oyo state on the map globally and also generated thier own quota to the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) of Oyo state with their craft. It is important we create the event space for ibadan-based vendors to showcase their wares.
By including indigenous content and vendors in state government events, we can not only promote our state’s rich cultural heritage, but also support SMEs, businesses and entrepreneurs. An Ibadan-based talent or enterpreneur cannot be engaged in a state event in Lagos state but here we have influx of non Ibadan-based talent flood the state events in Oyo state. I urge you to take action on this issue and make Oyo State a shining example of how to celebrate and showcase our culture and talents.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
Idris Animasaun
Public affairs analyst and environmental enthusiast
Open Letter source: InsideOyo
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