Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, says Nigeria has the potential to earn substantial foreign exchange from culture and tourism if properly developed and promoted.
The governor said this at the 39th Akesan Day Celebration held at Christ Apostolic Church Grammar School, Iperu-Remo, in Ikenne Local Government Area of the state on Saturday.
Abiodun noted that several countries across the world have successfully diversified their economies by leveraging culture and tourism, adding that Nigeria stands to gain immensely from its rich cultural heritage.
“Festivals like this bring thousands of visitors who patronize local businesses, artisans, entertainers, food vendors, hotels and of course, our transport operators,” he said.
“When properly harnessed, cultural celebrations become platforms for tourism, like Lisabi Day, Oronna Day, Ojude Oba and many more. They create jobs and attract investments.”
The governor cited Brazil, Kenya and the United Arab Emirates as examples of countries that have transformed tourism into major contributors to their national GDPs, noting that Nigeria can achieve similar outcomes with consistent cultural development.
“Nigeria can achieve the same by consistently developing and promoting its cultural identities. Festivals like this serve as catalysts, turning attention and positive visibility to our communities,” he added.
Abiodun stressed that culture not only enhances economic opportunities but also strengthens social bonds, values and communal responsibility, key ingredients for peaceful and progressive societies.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to preserving Ogun State’s cultural heritage and supporting community-based development initiatives.
The governor also commended President Bola Tinubu for ongoing economic reforms, assuring that Ogun State would continue to align with Federal Government policies for the benefit of its people.
Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Sesan Fagbemi, described Akesan Day as a rallying point for cultural expression and a platform for shaping the future of the community. He pledged continued government support for cultural preservation.
The Akarigbo and Paramount Ruler of Remoland, Oba Babatunde Ajayi, lauded the people of Iperu for sustaining their traditions and congratulated organisers for hosting a befitting celebration.
Chairman of the occasion and Asiwaju of Remoland, Chief Solomon Onafowokan, praised the state government for its infrastructural investments, especially the Gateway International Airport in Iperu. He said the annual festival boosts cultural engagement and economic progress, urging residents to preserve their heritage for future generations.
In his remarks, Chairman of the Iperu Akesan Community Development Association, Chief Taiwo Oyebanji, said the town recorded significant progress in road projects, physical development and erosion control over the past year.
He called for peaceful resolution of boundary disputes, improved local security, enhanced electricity supply and the completion of ongoing community development initiatives.
