Osun governor describes annual festival as priceless Yoruba heritage and major tourism attraction.
Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has described the annual Osun-Osogbo Festival as a priceless symbol of Yoruba culture and heritage that preserves the historic connection between the people of Osogbo and the sacred Osun River.
Governor Adeleke stated this while felicitating with the Ataoja of Osogbo, Oba Jimoh Olanipekun Oyetunji, and sons and daughters of Osogbo at home and abroad on the celebration of the festival.
In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, on Friday, the governor said the festival remained one of Africa’s foremost traditional celebrations, preserving centuries of history, spirituality and cultural identity.
He noted that the annual procession led by the Arugba, the presence of the Ataoja, traditional rites at the Osun Sacred Grove, prayers, chants and cultural displays represented important aspects of Yoruba civilisation handed down through generations.
“On behalf of the government and the good people of Osun State, I heartily felicitate with Kabiyesi, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Jimoh Olanipekun Oyetunji, Larooye II, Ataoja of Osogbo, and the entire people of Osogbo on this year’s Osun-Osogbo Festival,” Adeleke said.
The governor commended traditional leaders, cultural custodians, devotees and residents of Osogbo for sustaining the festival and preserving its cultural significance.
He said the celebration continued to project Osun State’s cultural heritage to the international community by attracting visitors, researchers and tourists from different parts of the world.
“As we celebrate this sacred tradition, may the blessings of Osun continue to bring peace, prosperity, and progress to our dear state,” he added.
Adeleke reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to preserving Osun’s cultural heritage and protecting the Osun Sacred Grove, a globally recognised heritage site.
He also pledged continued government support for initiatives aimed at promoting tourism, cultural diplomacy and economic opportunities for residents of the state.