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Olojo Festival Retains Glamour Despite COVID-19

Despite the effect of coronavirus pandemic on public gathering in the recent time, this year 2020 Olojo festival still retains its glamour and funfair as tourists and traditional worships stormed Ile-ife for the celebration of the annual festival.

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi came out of seclusion as usual on the day of Olojo after seven days of communing with his ancestors and praying for Nigeria and the entire Yoruba race.

As tradition demands, at the palace, Oba Ogunwusi wore the beaded Aare (sacred) Crown which is believed to be the oldest in the entire universe before he was joined by all and sundry in a procession to Oke-mogun where he performed traditional rites.

Osun state Governor, Gboyega Oyetola was among other eminent personalities who graced the occasion.

The Governor who commended the Ooni for promoting Yoruba culture restated his administration’s commitment to prioritising tourism for huge economic gains and rapid development of the State.

He disclosed that government is planing to build a world-class museum and cultural Centre in the State in recognition of the abundant opportunities inherent in the preservation and promotion of the State’s heritage and tourism.

Oyetola said government is resolved to prioritise the tourism sector as one of the economic pillars to drive the State’s economy.

He described as huge the contributions of culture and tourism infrastructure to the economic development of the State and as a foreign exchange earner, adding that government would leave no stone unturned to ensure that such contributions are maximally harnessed.

The Governor disclosed that the administration is already making efforts to build a sustainable tourism industry in the State through collaboration with local and international partners, some of whom had indicated intentions to collaborate with the government.

“A few weeks ago, a team of investors and financial Institutions visited the State and were impressed by its enormous human, cultural and natural resources after going round some of our tourist attractions.

“They have therefore expressed their willingness and strong commitment to develop our tourism attractions to World Class Destinations. We are vigorously pursuing these potential investors to ensure that our dream of making Osun a tourism and investment haven is achieved.

“To further show our commitment to the preservation and promotion of our roots, Ile-Ife, the State Government has decided to establish a unique and World Class edifice – the Yoruba Museums And Heritage Centre – to showcase our unique culture, tradition, heritage and experiences to the globe and create a huge market for the State.

“We are happy to have an Ooni who shares our dream that Olojo Festival should be of tourist and commercial values and not a mere avenue for celebrations and merry making,” Governor Oyetola added.