Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has identified the nation’s rich cultural heritage as a potent alternative source of foreign exchange earnings, urging a strategic pivot towards harnessing festivals for economic diversification.
Speaking at the 39th Akesan Day Celebration held at the Christ Apostolic Church Grammar School, Iperu-Remo, Ikenne Local Government Area, the Governor noted that when properly harnessed, culture possesses the capacity to transform from a mere social activity into a major revenue driver.
Governor Abiodun drew parallels with global economies, pointing out that countries ranging from Brazil to Kenya, and notably the United Arab Emirates through Dubai, have successfully utilized culture and tourism as primary drivers of economic expansion and significant contributors to their national Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
He argued that Nigeria stands to benefit immensely if its numerous cultural festivals are fully developed and promoted.
According to him, events such as the Ojude Oba, Lisabi Day, and Oronna Day serve as economic catalysts that create positive visibility for communities while stimulating direct commerce.
The Governor explained that these festivals attract thousands of visitors who fuel the local economy by patronizing artisans, entertainers, food vendors, hoteliers, and transport operators, thereby creating jobs and attracting investments.
He maintained that Nigeria can replicate global success stories by consistently developing its cultural identities to attract international attention.
Beyond the economic imperatives, Governor Abiodun emphasized that culture promotes shared identity and social harmony.
He noted that cultural engagements instill values such as unity, honesty, and communal responsibility, which are key ingredients for societal development.
He further reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to preserving history and supporting community development across Ogun State, while commending President Bola Tinubu for his efforts to revive the nation’s economy through ongoing reforms.
Also speaking at the event, the State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Sesan Fagbemi, described Akesan Day as a rallying point for cultural promotion and a platform for charting the future of the community, assuring that the state government would continue to preserve its cultural heritage.
The event witnessed royal commendations from the Akarigbo and Paramount Ruler of Remoland, Oba Babatunde Ajayi, who lauded the people of Iperu for sustaining their traditions and organizing a befitting event.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the occasion and Asiwaju of Remoland, Chief Solomon Onafowokan, applauded the state government for its infrastructural strides, particularly the siting of the Gateway International Airport in Iperu.
He noted that such infrastructure enhances cultural engagement and economic progress, even as he urged residents to preserve their heritage for future generations.
Giving a scorecard of the community’s progress, the Chairman of the Iperu Akesan Community Development Association, Chief Taiwo Oyebanji, disclosed that the town has recorded significant milestones in the past year, particularly in road projects, physical development, and erosion control.
He, however, called for the amicable resolution of boundary issues, improvement in local security, enhanced power supply, and the speedy completion of ongoing community development projects.