…as Aiyedatiwa pledges to boost tourism
The ancient town of Idanre in Ondo State erupted in celebration on Tuesday night as the Mare Festival made a historic return after a nine-year hiatus, drawing thousands of residents and tourists to a colorful grand finale presided over by Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa.
The revival of the festival, which celebrates the rich cultural heritage of the Idanre people and the imposing Idanre Hills, turned the town into a hub of music, art, and raw cultural pride.
Governor Aiyedatiwa, who stood for hours before an electrified crowd, described the event’s return as a powerful statement of cultural rebirth in the face of globalization.
Addressing the gathering, the Governor emphasized that while cultural exchange is inevitable in the modern world, Ondo State must resolutely preserve its indigenous identity.
He expressed particular delight at the creative performances by young artistes who seamlessly blended rap and contemporary rhythms with the local Idanre language, noting that such displays proved culture could evolve without losing its soul.
Aiyedatiwa hailed the festival as a vital platform for youth creativity, citing the discovery of new talents during the four-day programme which featured a marathon and various entertainment activities.
He commended the maturity and discipline of the massive crowd, promising that his administration would work closely with the Ministry of Culture and Tourism to make next year’s edition even bigger.
In a major boost for the local economy, the Governor highlighted the approval of a dual carriageway linking Akure to Idanre.
He noted that the infrastructure project is designed to facilitate easier access to the ancient town, thereby boosting tourism and agribusiness in the corridor.
Earlier in his remarks, the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Mr. Adesoji Afolabi, stated that the resurrection of the Mare Festival was part of a broader strategy by the Aiyedatiwa administration to use tourism as a catalyst for economic growth and peace.
He disclosed that the Governor has approved the revival of four major cultural festivals across the state, including the Ilaje Boat Regatta, the Igogo Festival in Owo, and the Akoko Unity Carnival.
The night reached a fever pitch with an electrifying performance by star artiste Teniola Apata, popularly known as Teni Makanaki, who thrilled the audience with her hit songs.
The event was attended by top government officials and political leaders, including the Deputy Governor, Dr. Olayide Adelami; former House of Representatives member Hon. Tajudeen Adefisoye; Chairman of Idanre Local Government, Hon. Smart Omotadowa; and other members of the State Executive Council.
