By Taiwo Scholastica
Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, has congratulated the Ataoja of Osogbo, His Imperial Majesty Oba Jimoh Olanipekun Oyetunji, Larooye II, and the people of Osogbo on the 2026 Osun-Osogbo Festival.
The governor, in a statement issued on Friday by his spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, described the annual festival as a vital cultural heritage that has preserved the historical and spiritual connection between the people of Osogbo and the Osun River.
Adeleke said the festival has grown beyond a traditional celebration to become a significant representation of Yoruba culture and civilization, attracting people from across Nigeria and around the world.
He noted that the activities surrounding the festival, including the procession of the Arugba, the participation of the Ataoja, and the performance of traditional rites at the Osun Sacred Grove, provide an opportunity for the preservation and transmission of cultural values from one generation to another.
According to the governor, the festival also offers Osun State an avenue to showcase its cultural heritage to the international community while creating opportunities in tourism and other sectors of the local economy.
Adeleke commended the Ataoja, the Osun Priestess (Iya Osun), the Arugba, traditional institutions, devotees, cultural custodians, and the residents of Osogbo for their continued commitment to sustaining the festival.
He acknowledged the roles played by various stakeholders in keeping the centuries-old tradition alive and ensuring that the festival continues to attract tourists, researchers, cultural enthusiasts, and other visitors.
“On behalf of the government and the good people of Osun State, I heartily felicitate Kabiyesi, His Imperial Majesty Oba Jimoh Olanipekun Oyetunji, Larooye II, the Ataoja of Osogbo, and the entire people of Osogbo on this year’s Osun-Osogbo Festival,” Adeleke said.
The governor stressed the need for the continued protection of the Osun Sacred Grove, which remains central to the festival and is recognized internationally for its cultural and historical significance.
He stated that his administration would continue to support efforts aimed at protecting the state’s cultural assets and developing them into attractions capable of boosting the state’s tourism sector.
Adeleke also linked cultural preservation with economic development, noting that initiatives surrounding tourism and cultural activities could provide opportunities for residents while enhancing the global visibility of Osun State.
He assured stakeholders that the state government would remain supportive of programs promoting cultural diplomacy, tourism development, and the preservation of traditional institutions.
“As we celebrate this sacred tradition, may the blessings of Osun continue to bring peace, prosperity, and progress to our dear state,” he added.
The governor’s message comes as Osogbo hosts the annual festival, which brings together traditional rulers, devotees, residents, and visitors for cultural and spiritual activities centered on the Osun Sacred Grove.
The 2026 celebration further highlights the importance of the festival to Osogbo and Osun State, as stakeholders continue their efforts to preserve its traditions while promoting its tourism and cultural value.