News Update
THE Ondo State Government has announced plans to officially partner with the Owo Kingdom in the hosting of the annual Igogo Festival, a cultural heritage that reflects the uniqueness of the Owo people and continues to place the state on the global map.
This was disclosed on Friday by the Honourable Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Afolabi Adesoji, during a courtesy visit to His Imperial Majesty, Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye III, Olowo of Owo Kingdom, who also serves as the Chairman, Council of Obas in Ondo State.
Speaking during the visit, the Commissioner reaffirmed the commitment of the Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa–led administration to the promotion, preservation, and celebration of cultural values and traditions across the state. He further noted that, for the first time in history, the Igogo Festival will be organized in collaboration with the Ondo State Government, signaling a new era of cultural promotion and inclusivity.
In his response, Oba Ogunoye III expressed immense joy at the development, describing it as unprecedented in the history of Ondo State. He lauded Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for recognizing the cultural significance of the festival and for strengthening the bond between government and traditional institutions.
This year’s Igogo Festival, which began yesterday with the first Upeli procession, will run through a series of cultural activities and is expected to climax in a glamorous celebration on Monday, September 29th, at Ugba Edema.
The Commissioner was accompanied on the visit by a distinguished delegation, including; Princess Dupe Adetuwo (Special Assistant to the Governor on Culture), Hon. Oladimeji Olanegan (Special Assistant to the Governor on Mobilization), Mr. Yomi Owolabi (Director of Culture), Mr. Adeola Aderinola (Director of Tourism) and Erelu Mopelola Tomoloju (Consultant on Culture).