At the vibrant Ojude Oba festival held on Sunday at the Awujale pavilion in Ijebu Ode, the Minister of Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hanatu Musawa, reaffirmed President Bola Tinubu’s dedication to positioning Nigeria as the greatest black nation globally through the promotion and export of its rich cultural heritage.
Speaking at the annual event, which takes place three days after Eid-el-Kabir, Musawa emphasized the Federal Government’s readiness to partner with Ogun State to develop tourism, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth. “President Bola Tinubu is strongly committed to making us the greatest black nation on earth, to making us one of the strongest economies,” she declared. She further explained that leveraging Nigeria’s cultural and creative sectors is central to this ambition.
Musawa praised the people of Ijebu land for their beautiful cultural display and lauded the Awujale, Oba Sikiru Adetona, for his efforts in preserving traditions for future generations. She described Ojude Oba as a significant driver of economic expansion and applauded the collaboration between the Federal Government and Ogun State.
Highlighting the festival’s potential, she said, “We can increase our visibility, we can bring job creation by looking at what the culture and tradition have to offer. This culture is your ideal, it’s your tradition, it’s who we are as a people, and we are extremely proud.”
Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun echoed these sentiments, describing Ojude Oba as more than a festival—a living heritage that fosters national unity and economic growth. He pledged continued government support to enhance tourism and youth empowerment through such cultural celebrations.
Rite Foods, a key sponsor, fed over 21,000 guests, underscoring corporate Nigeria’s commitment to cultural preservation. The 91-year-old Awujale was absent due to age but was represented by his wife, Olori Kemi Adetona.
The event was attended by notable dignitaries including Ogun State officials, former governors, senators, and traditional leaders, all celebrating Nigeria’s rich cultural tapestry under President Tinubu’s visionary leadership.
