The Olota of the Otta-Awori Kingdom, Oba Adeyemi Obalanlege, has said that the annual Odun Omo Iganmode festival would continue to serve as a platform for the socioeconomic development of the Otta-Awori Kingdom.
He stated this in an interview shortly after a news conference ahead of the 2024 Odun Omo Iganmode Cultural Festival scheduled to commence on December 16th to 21st.
The theme of the week-long is ‘Otta: The Beacon of Awori Heritage and Civilisation’.
He said, “The Odun Omo Iganmode festival embodies our commitment to preserving and promoting our values, which prioritise unity, security, and shared responsibility.
“The festival offers a platform for fostering initiatives that uplift Aworiland and Ogun State while uniting Awori sons, daughters, and friends in a collective celebration of identity.
“The contributions from our community leaders, businesses, and residents affirm our dedication to maintaining Otta as a safe, inclusive, and prosperous city where traditions are honoured, and progress is celebrated.
“As we embrace the spirit of this year’s festivities, let us take pride in our Awori identity and instil in future generations the values of integrity, respect, and community. The Odun Omo Iganmode is a call to action for us all to champion our culture and stand united against forces that threaten our peace and values.
“As we open the doors to our beloved city, may this festival inspire a renewed commitment to a proud, dignified, and harmonious Aworiland.”
The Chairman of the Central Planning Committee for the festival, Temitayo Idowu, said the annual celebration is to further strengthen community ties among sons and daughters of Aworiland.
While hailing the historical role of Otta in the promotion of trade, leadership, and innovations among the Awori people and beyond, and serving as a hub for commerce and industry.
“This legacy of openness and progress continues, as Otta remains a space that encourages innovation, knowledge-sharing, and economic growth. The Iganmode Cultural Festival is an annual revival of this spirit, where people come together to celebrate and strengthen community ties,” he added.
Idowu highlighted cultural displays, free medical services, a visit to the Ijamido Motherless Home,children’s party and the grand finale on the 21 December with the installation of chieftancy titles to distinguished sons and daughters of the kingdom.
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