… Commissioner Bola Olukoju says cultural heritage is key to unity, youth engagement, and tourism; Governor AbdulRazaq hailed as a champion of tradition
The Kwara State Government has reiterated its commitment to supporting, expanding, and promoting the cultural heritage and traditions of the state as a means of boosting revenue through cultural tourism.
The State Commissioner for Communications, Hon. Bola Olukoju, made this known over the weekend during the 2025 edition of the annual Orugbo/Ite-Oba festival in Omu-Aran, headquarters of Irepodun Local Government Area.
Represented by the Director of Information Services in the Ministry, Alhaji Olayinka Jimoh Salau, the Commissioner stated that Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq remains passionate about preserving and promoting the state’s rich cultural legacy.
“Culture is not just a relic of the past—it is a dynamic force that binds us, inspires us, and propels our growth as a people,” Olukoju declared.
She emphasized that the state government is working assiduously to document and promote Kwara’s cultural festivals for national and international recognition, adding that these festivals hold immense value for unity, economic empowerment, youth engagement, and tourism development.
“Through the Ministry of Communications, we have continued to support festivals like this, recognizing them as avenues for unity, economic empowerment, youth engagement, and tourism development,” she said. “So, as we promote digital innovation and modern governance, we are equally committed to preserving the very roots that define us.”
Commending the Olomu of Omu-Aran, Oba AbdulRaheem Oladele Adeoti, for his steadfast role in preserving his community’s heritage, Olukoju described the Orugbo festival as a reminder of the dignity, leadership, and spiritual essence of traditional institutions.
She also called on the youth to take greater interest in their cultural identity by learning their history, speaking their local dialects, and actively participating in traditional festivals, stressing that the future of cultural preservation lies in their hands.
In his remarks, the Olomu of Omu-Aran, Oba AbdulRaheem Oladele Adeoti, Olomu Efon II, expressed gratitude to the state government for its support in ensuring the successful hosting of the 2025 Orugbo/Ite-Oba festival. He lauded Governor AbdulRazaq as a chief promoter of culture and tradition in Kwara State, noting that the government’s involvement had given the festival a significant boost.
The Executive Chairman of Irepodun Local Government, Hon. Abdulazeez Yakubu Tinuola, and the National President of Omu-Aran Development Association (ODA), Mr. Niyi Adeyeye, in separate goodwill messages, thanked the Governor for providing financial support to the festival for the first time and urged him to continue on that path.
A major highlight of the annual socio-cultural celebration was the once-a-year traditional dance by the Olomu of Omu-Aran, led by the Eesa Omu, High Chief AbdulRazaq Oyinloye. The ceremony concluded with special prayers offered by the custodian of Ogbo and Onigemo of Omu-Aran, High Chief (Barr.) Ademola Ajiboye, for the Olomu, indigenes at home and abroad, and the entire community, seeking growth, peace, and progress.
The 2025 Orugbo/Ite-Oba festival drew dignitaries from across the state and beyond, further cementing its role as a key cultural event in Kwara’s calendar.
