Makinde Champions Culture as Oyo Hosts Vibrant World Egungun Festival

Ibadan, Oyo State –Governor ‘Seyi Makinde of Oyo State yesterday reaffirmed his administration’s strong commitment to bolstering the state’s cultural landscape and harnessing its potential for economic growth through tourism. Speaking at the grand finale of the 2025 World Egungun Festival, held at the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium in Oke-Ado, Ibadan, Governor Makinde emphasized the inseparable link between culture and tourism and the state’s strategic intent to leverage its rich heritage.

The governor highlighted the impressive cultural displays witnessed at the festival, noting the significant turnout as a testament to the event’s appeal and its potential to drive the local economy. Drawing parallels with developed nations where culture significantly contributes to economic expansion, Governor Makinde pledged his government’s dedication to developing the Egungun Festival into a substantial revenue generator for Oyo State.

“The display of culture here today has been very amazing. And, from this event, we can see that the government is promoting culture and tourism, because both are intertwined,” Governor Makinde stated. “What we have seen here today is extremely interesting, with the massive turnout, and this is one of the ways to use culture and tourism to drive the economy.”

He underscored the importance of preserving cultural heritage, expressing his satisfaction at the enthusiastic participation of both older and younger generations in the festival.Governor Makinde also reiterated his administration’s commitment to religious freedom, referencing the declaration of August 20th as Isese Day as a demonstration of respect for diverse religious practices within the state.

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“We must not allow our culture to go into extinction, and I am happy because it is not only the old people that are here today. We can also see our youths here enjoying the moment. That is why we must continue to relive our culture,” he affirmed.

The governor proudly acknowledged the international dimension of the festival, welcoming masquerade troupes from the Republic of Benin and dignitaries from Ghana, Brazil, and Cuba, signifying its growing global recognition. He commended all participating masquerades and stakeholders for their vibrant performances and urged organizers to explore avenues for maximizing the festival’s economic benefits for the state.

Oba Rashidi Ladoja, the Chairman of the 2025 World Egungun Festival, conveyed through the Maye of Ibadanland, Chief Lekan Alabi, the profound cultural and ancestral significance of the Egungun tradition. He offered prayers for the continued progress and prosperity of Ibadanland and Oyo State.

Goodwill messages from the Osun State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon Ojo Abiodun, and the President of Oje Parapo Worldwide, Prince Adeola Adelakun, lauded Governor Makinde’s visionary leadership and proactive approach to promoting culture and tourism. They called on all stakeholders to support the government’s efforts and discourage any negative behaviors associated with masquerade festivals.

Earlier, the Oyo State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatunbosun, expressed his gratitude to Governor Makinde for his unwavering support for the promotion of tradition and customs since the inception of his administration. He revealed the state government’s ongoing efforts to have the Egungun Festival recognized by UNESCO, a move anticipated to further boost the state’s economy and elevate its cultural standing on the global stage.

Dr. Olatunbosun also thanked various associations, groups, and individuals for their contributions, emphasizing the Yoruba people’s role as custodians of a rich cultural heritage.

The vibrant event showcased captivating traditional masquerade displays from Oyo, Ogun, Osun, and Ekiti states, as well as the Republic of Benin. The grand finale was attended by a distinguished audience, including traditional rulers, religious leaders, heads of missions, diplomatic corps members, and ambassadors. The 2025 World Egungun Festival underscores Oyo State’s dedication to preserving and promoting its cultural heritage while strategically leveraging it for sustainable economic development.