The World Egungun Festival held in Oyo today and was truly amazing, marking a first of its kind globally. His Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde, the executive Governor of Oyo State, has significantly transformed the face of Culture and Tourism into a dynamic form in Oyo State.
He initiated this journey by appointing a competent and active commissioner after splitting the Ministry of Information, Culture, and Tourism into two; the Ministry of Information and the Ministry of Culture and Tourism. He reinstated Hon. Dr. Wasiu Olatunbosun as the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism.
The Honorable Commissioner has excelled in enhancing national outlook culture and tourism sector in Oyo State, earning UNESCO’s approval for World Sango Day in Oyo Alaafin.
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Earlier this year, he successfully hosted an International Tourism Summit in 2024, which has increased tourism visitation to Oyo State, boosted the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), and attracted more investors.
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The Egungun Festival, known for its occasional danger and brutality, has seen clashes between two Egungun groups, causing unrest and making participation daunting. There was a time when the festival was banned due to conflicts and loss of life during celebrations. Egungun worshipers have also clashed with followers of other religions, leading to societal unrest.
Governor Seyi Makinde and Hon. Dr. Wasiu Olatunbosun have now reformed and revived its lost glory, gathering Egungun celebrants from all over the world to enjoy festivities together in one place.
The World Egungun Festival promises to foster unity and peace in our society while promoting Yoruba culture globally.
Moreover, World Egungun Festival is set to boost the state’s tourism sector, attract more investors, and enhance the state’s global visibility, drawing interest in visiting its numerous tourist sites such as Ado Awaye suspended Lake Cocoa House among others.
Tourists will also appreciate the newly constructed Olubadan Palace in Ibadan.
Indeed, Asiwaju ni WA!