The Oyo State Government has announced that it will hold the inaugural Egungun Festival on Thursday, themed “Our Culture, Our Heritage.”
The event aims to highlight the state’s rich cultural traditions and stimulate economic growth through cultural tourism.
Dr. Wasiu Olatunbosun, the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, revealed that the festival is designed to attract both local and international tourists, aligning with Governor Seyi Makinde’s vision for economic expansion. “The festival will be a rich showcase of the cultural potential and heritage of the state,” Olatunbosun said.
He emphasised that the festival, a first of its kind in the South-West, would also provide a platform to promote emerging cultural artists in the Fuji and Apala music genres.
“Masquerades hold deep historical significance, embodying the spirit of resilience and unity that defines the state’s identity," he noted.
The event will take place at the Race Course, Lekan Salami Sports Complex in Adamasingba, Ibadan, featuring major masquerades and dynamic displays of culture, dance, music, and traditional delicacies such as ‘amala with gbegiri, eko, and moinmoin’.
A guest lecture will be delivered by Chief Ifayemi Elebuibon, the Araba of Osogboland. Additionally, the late Sikiru Ayinde Barrister, a Fuji music legend and native of Oyo State, will be honoured posthumously for his contributions to promoting Fuji music globally.
Olatunbosun highlighted the Makinde-led administration’s ambition to have the Egungun Festival recognised by UNESCO, similar to the World Sango Festival. “This festival has been meticulously packaged to preserve our rich cultural heritage and traditions for future generations,” he stated
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