2023 Olokun festival promises unprecedented grandeur, rich cultural heritage —Ambassador Fashola

As the city of Lagos is abuzz with excitement as preparations for the highly anticipated Olokun festival to be graced by the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja 11, are in full swing, chief host and convener of the event, Ambassador Dr. Yeye Lara Fashola, has emphasised that the festival will showcase how entertainment, in all its forms, plays a pivotal role in preserving and propagating cultural heritage.

The Olokun Festival, billed to hold August 26, is set to be an extraordinary celebration, commencing with prayers and propitiations for economic growth  and wealth, diving deep into the spiritual and historical significance of the deity, Olokun.

Revered in Yoruba mythology as the goddess of wealth, fertility, and the sea, Olokun holds a profound in the hearts of the Yoruba people. With an emphasis on traditional rites, the event promises to be a poignant and spiritually enriching experience for all attendees.

Ambassador Fashola made this known, while speaking with newsmen, saying that the festival, known for its celebration of Yoruba culture and traditions, themed, “Entertainment is Culture,” underscores the vital connection between the arts, music, dance, and storytelling with the rich Yoruba heritage.

According to her, it aims to demonstrate how these elements have been integral in passing down Yoruba traditions through generations, noting that by embracing the joy and creativity of entertainment, the race strengthens her collective identity to keep her culture alive.

“The theme: ‘Entertainment is culture’ underscores the vital connection between the arts, music, dance, and storytelling with our rich Yoruba heritage.

“We aim to demonstrate how these elements have been integral in passing down our traditions through generations. By embracing the joy and creativity of entertainment, we strengthen our collective identity and keep our culture alive,” she said.

Speaking further, the convener said this year’s edition, which had envisioned an expansion of the frontiers of Yoruba cultural heritage, seeks to promote and boost the richness of the people’s culture in a grand and remarkable manner, adding, “Our goal is to create an unforgettable celebration that will leave a lasting impact on the hearts and minds of all present.”

“With a reputation for being one of the most significant cultural events in Nigeria, the Olokun festival is expected to surpass all previous editions in scope and impact. It will be a captivating display of the customs, traditions, and artistic expressions, showcasing the beauty and diversity of Yoruba culture.

“The festival is proudly held in partnership with the Lagos State Government and LagosTourism, underscoring the commitment of the authorities to preserve and promote the rich cultural heritage of the Yorubas,” Fashola stated.

Fashola, while maintaining that the Olokun Festival will be a platform to witness thrilling and fascinating cultural moments that had never been experienced before, disclosed that guests to the event include dignitaries, cultural icons, traditional rulers, international tourists, and stakeholders from various industries, both private and public sectors, declaring that “it will serve as a melting pot for cultural exchange, fostering a deeper appreciation for Nigeria’s heritage and inspiring collaboration between diverse communities.”