By Richard Thomas: Ibadan
The Commissioner for Culture and Tourism in Oyo State, Dr. Wasiu Olatunbosun has reiterated the commitment of the ministry to ensure that Isese Day celebration in state become global festival annually.
The Commissioner stated this at the grand finale of the 2023 Yemoja Festival celebration held in conjunction with Oyo State Ministry of Culture and Tourism at Yemoja Temple, Ile Aperin, Popoyemoja, Gbodu, in Ibadan.
According to him, culture remains true identity of man on the surface of the earth since creation, adding that nations all over the world has culture traceable to their various source.
He said the ministry of culture and tourism would do everything possible to ensure that subsequent celebrations of Isese celebration in the state turns out to be global festival such that UNESCO would partner with the Ministry of Culture and Tourism to make it a full blown celebration.
“The Isese Day celebration has come to stay, the ministry will ensure that the next celebration is elaborate such that UNESCO would partner with the Ministry of Culture and Tourism to make the festival a global celebration.
“I moved the idea for the Isese day in 2019, after which a Bill on it was sent to state House of Assembly. Initially, it appeared as if the Bill would not see the light of the day.
“At last in 2023 it became a reality after which our amiable governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde intervened with the cooperation of the State House of Assembly.
“The sustainability of our culture and tradition is our hands, we as a people should continue to sustain and make the best out of it. Our culture is the best, I will do everything possible to ensure it never go into extinction. The 2024 edition of the festival will be more elaborate and fantastic. We will collaborate with UNESCO to make it a global festival.”
Dr. Olatunbosun while commending governor Seyi Makinde for approving the Isese Day celebration called for cooperation of the people at ensuring that the cultural values of the Yoruba are sustained, assuring that the 2024 Yemoja Festival would attract ten thousand crowed.
In her welcome address, the Iyalorisa Omitonade Ifawemimo
thanked the governor Seyi Makinde and the commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr Olatunbosun for their huge commitments to the success of the 2023 Yemoja Festival.
She said the celebration, spanning a remarkable 17 days, stands as a testament to the profound significance of our cultural heritage, spirituality, and traditions
According to her, the Yemoja Ibadan Festival is a time-honored tradition that has been woven into the very fabric of our identity, tracing its roots from the earliest generation of Oniyemoja’s to the present day.
“It is a celebration that embodies the purest form of Yorùbá religion (Iṣẹ̀ṣẹ̀) and spirituality, encapsulated in a comprehensive program of Ã’rìṣà dances, soul-stiring songs, and awe-inspiring propitiations.
“This Festival has been a cherished tradition since time immemorial. From the very first generation of Oniyemoja’s to this present one, this festival has been a vital part of our heritage, deeply woven into the fabric of our identity. This year, we are particularly thrilled and grateful for the intervention and support of the government.”
She said while this festival has predominantly relied on individual contributions and dedication, the government’s involvement this year has added a new dimension to our celebration.
“As we stand here on the cusp of the grand finale, I would like to take this moment to express our gratitude to the government, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism and all those who have been instrumental in making this festival a reality. Your support has not only reinvigorated our cultural celebration but also added a new layer of significance to our traditions.
We are immensely thankful for your commitment to preserving our cultural heritage.
“With the success of this year’s festival, we are inspired to reach even greater heights in the future, hence, I would like to take this opportunity to request the continued support of the government and the Ministry of Culture and Tourism. We believe that our shared vision can foster the growth of our great state and significantly impact tourism and economic development.
We are committed to working hand in glove with the government to transform the Yemoja Ibadan Festival into a key tourist attraction. We will renovate our surroundings, making them suitable for a world-class tourist center, and, in doing so, we aim to prove that culture and tourism are inextricably linked. Our culture is a valuable asset, and we cannot separate it from the growth and prosperity of our state.
“In the spirit of unity and collaboration, we propose the establishment of the “Yemoja Ibadan Groove” to promote our cultural heritage. This initiative, we believe, will be a milestone in our journey toward sustainable tourism and economic growth.
“We kindly request your approval and support for this venture, which will not only boost our local economy but also showcase the uniqueness of our culture to the world.
Iyalorisa Ifawemimo called for government’s support and the people unwavering commitment to make the Yemoja Ibadan Festival a symbol of cultural excellence, economic growth, and unity.
In his address, the Aare Isese of Oyo State, Babalorisa Omikunmi Egbelade said the significance of the Yemoja Festival is for the peace and security of the state and to also protect our culture and tourism.
Egbelade who is also the Baale Yemoja of Ibadan land thanked governor Seyi Makinde and the commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr Olatunbosun for the great achievements.
