The initiator and promoter of Eko Onibaje cultural – tourism festival, Chief Ozo Chinedu Idezuma Ezemmuo, has declared that this year’s Eko Onibaje festival would be held in a unique mode which will loud not only in Nigeria, but shake the global cultural tourism world.
Chief Idezuma who made this revelation while playing host to a crop of journalists at Eko Onibaje Village, Ibeju Lekki on Saturday said “we are reviewing every aspect of the festival which include the New Yam festival, the boat regatta, visit to Igi Metta – Ibeju, traditional wrestling competition and football competition, beach carnival, artist night and cultural night, all in order to attract not only Nigerians but international visitors”
He revealed “we have picked the date. It will be held on September 27, which is World’s Tourism Day and closes on October 2. We are opening up the Eko Onibaje Village for cultural integration, community activation and artistic reorientation.”
Ezemmuo disclosed “This year’s festival has got the endorsement of the Lagos State Governor, Ibeju Lekki Community Development Authority, the Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation (NTDC), Centre for Black Arts and African Civilization (CBAAC), and other Corporate bodies who do not only believe in sponsoring the cultural – tourism heritage of the country but see it as a potent instrument for unity”.
He commended the posture of the Ibeju Lekki community and particularly Oba Rafiu Olusegun Salami who “has been the back bone of this festival and who always go out to source and search for sponsorship for the festival. Oba salami is a unique and exceptional traditional royal father who sees every Nigerian as a son of the soil no matter where that fellow comes from. Oba Salami will live long for he so much love the advancement of culture, tourism and development of Ibeju Lekki. I am very grateful to him”.
Ezemmuo said “With your support and support of the owners of the land, this year’s Eko Onibaje Festival will be the best. Mark my word”
and then