Makinde Commits to Cultural Tourism at Egungun Festival

During the grand final of the Egungun festival held at the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium in Ibadan, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde reiterated his commitment to supporting cultural tourism as a means to enhance the state's economic value chain. He highlighted the festival's significance in showcasing cultural heritage and its potential to improve the state's economy, which generated revenue of 2.0 million naira in the previous year.

Makinde emphasized the need to change negative narratives surrounding the festival and explore its economic opportunities. He announced plans to enlist the Egungun festival for UNESCO's intangible cultural heritage recognition to ensure global acknowledgment.

The event featured 18,000 masqueraders from five geopolitical zones, showcasing the rich cultural traditions of the region. Key stakeholders, including the British Deputy High Commission's Simon Field and royal figures like Oba Rashidi Ladoja, commended Makinde's leadership and commitment to promoting cultural values and traditions.