Governor Rauf Aregbesola of Osun on Friday said his administration would continue to support cultural festivals with a view to enhancing the social and economic development of the state.
Speaking during the grand finale of the annual Osun Osogbo festival, he noted that provision of critical support and creation of enabling atmosphere for tourism sub-sector were capable of shoring up revenue generation drive of the state government.
Aregbesola, who was represented by his Commissioner for Home Affairs Dr Olawale Adebisi, said his government was keen on the sustainability of Osun Osogbo festival due to its potentials for providing a platform for the export of Yoruba traditional heritage, where cultural exploits in the state showcased to both local and international tourists.
According to him, “Osun Osogbo festival also provides an avenue for the largest gathering of youths, so it provides a channel for transfer of culture and tradition to the younger generation. It also brings about economic development, as tourists who come for the festival would lodge and spend their money, which improves the state economy.”
While imploring the host, the Ataoja of Osogbo, Oba Jimoh Olanipekun to use the occasion to pray for nation and Osun, specifically for the peaceful conduct of September 22 gubernatorial poll, Aregbesola said the monarch should offer prayers, with a view to supporting the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC) win so that developmental strides in the state can continue..
In her remark, the Special Adviser to Aregbesola on Culture and Tourism, Mrs Taiwo Oluga, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Culture and Tourism, who was also the chairperson of the occasion, sought for more collaboration from relevant stakeholders to promote culture and traditional heritage in the state.
Addressing thousands of adherents and worshippers of Osun Osogbo, Oba Olaonipekun commended the partners and sponsors for their contributions towards the success of this year festival, most especially corporate bodies royal fathers and Nigerians from within the country and diaspora.
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