In preparation for the highly anticipated 2024 World Sango Festival, slated to take place in August, the Oyo State Government has taken decisive action by inaugurating a 10-member committee.
This event follows the prestigious enlistment of the Sango Festival by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in its esteemed list of World Heritage in 2023.
The Sango Festival, deeply rooted in the rich cultural tapestry of the Yoruba people, holds special significance as it marks the commencement of the Yoruba Traditional New Year in August.
Located near the ancient Koso Temple in Sango, Nigeria, this ancestral worship celebration spans a remarkable ten days, intricately woven into the social, religious, cultural, and political fabric of Oyo State.
During the inauguration ceremony, Dr. Wasiu Olatubosun, the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, impassioned the newly appointed committee members to uphold the highest standards. He emphasized the importance of securing sponsorship for the festival and amplifying its reach locally and across UNESCO member nations.
Dr. Olatubosun also lauded the instrumental contributions of UNESCO representatives, Dr. Paula Gomez, and Mr. Emmanuel Odekanyin from the International Cultural Relations Department, Federal Ministry of Arts and Culture, in securing UNESCO's approval for the World Sango Festival. Stressing the need to attract an international audience, he underscored the importance of aligning the festival with global standards.
Heading the committee is Mrs. Olayinka Adedeji, the General Manager of the Cultural Centre, Ibadan, with Dr. Paula Gomez serving as co-chair.
The committee comprises officials from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, among others, committed to ensuring the festival's success.
Anticipation for the event is palpable, with an estimated crowd of over 15,000 local and international tourists expected to converge in Oyo town for the festivities. As the festival kicks off on the eve of the Yoruba New Year in August, Sango devotees and followers will partake in age-old traditions, including sharing and relishing roasted new yams and palm oil.
Throughout the festival, participants of all genders will adorn themselves in vibrant red attire, adorned with white and red beads, symbolizing reverence and cultural unity. From chanting to storytelling, drumming, and dancing, the festival promises a captivating display of Yoruba heritage and spirituality.
As children absorb the customs and rituals through observation and participation, the festival serves as a vital conduit for passing down ancestral knowledge and skills
The ten-day festival is strongly connected to the social, religious, cultural and political institutions of the Oyo State.
Speaking during the inauguration, the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr Wasiu Olatubosun, charged members to live up to expectations.
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