Nigeria should tap cultural festivals for tourism economy —Gani Adams

Nigeria has all it takes to become the major tourism destination in the world if government at all levels harness the tourism potentials that abound in the country.

Chief promoter of Olokun Festival Foundation (OFF), Otunba Gani Adams made this known during the Obatala Festival which held at Baptist Primary School, Igangan, Oyo State at the weekend.

Gani Adams, who is also the national coordinator, Oodua People’s Congress (OPC) told the gathering; “ this is a cogent call at a time like this when tourism is a huge business across the world even as oil reputation is declining all over the world. “

Talking about the essence of Obatala Festival, Adams had this to say: “Obatala is the African god of purity, who is mostly venerated all over the world. Some of his names include Olufon, Orisa la, Orisha-Popo and Orisha Nla otherwise referred to as the maker or creator of the earth and sculpture. Obatala, is the owner of all things that are white. He is calm,  wise, understanding and loves peace and harmony.”

“Obatala , is the supreme deity that was sent by Olodumare from heaven to earth in the beginning of time when the entire world was nothing but water. He created the land over the water beneath the sky and founded the earth.”

Adams recalled that his foundation has remained committed to their ideals over the years. It is passionate in its commitment to make gods happy with us because we have remained focused, dedicated and resolute on this course.

“ We have demonstrated and proved beyond doubts, our resolve and determination in breaking new grounds in our quest to project Yoruba cultural heritage to the world. All these are the rewards for our courage and purposefulness in the pursuit of our dreams as an organisation.”

In his words, His Royal Majesty. Oba Lasisi Adeoye, Asigangan of Igangan commended Otunba Adams for his unrelenting efforts in the promotion of culture and tourism. It is not easy to be promoting culture, Otunba is promoting it without any financial support from anywhere, it is high time government gave him all the necessary support.

Also speaking at the festival was Chief Ayo Adewuyi, Jagun of Oyo who was the representative of His Imperial Majesty Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, Alaafin of Oyo. Chief Adewuyi said “Otunba Adams has done what no Yoruba man has done in the history of Yoruba. He established the structure of Oodua Progressive Union in about 80 countries, this alone is worthy of commendation. We should eulogise and commend him so that he can do more.

Other personalities present at the festival were HRM Oba Okeniyi Ewuola, Ashawo of Ayete, HRM Oba Samuel Adewuyi Onidofin of Idofin, HRM Oba Fasasi Adekunle Onisangaun of Saganun, Chief Adedokun Jacob Regent of Elenpe Tapa, Chief Raheem Adelodu Bashorun of Iseyin Land and other five chiefs from Iseyin who were represented Aseyin of Iseyin, Chief Femi Davies, Publisher of Metro News/Consultant to Olokun Festival Foundation among others.