The Owa Ale of Ikareland, Adeleke Adegbite-Adedoyin, has urged all levels of government to prioritize the development and investment in Nigeria’s tourism sector.
Speaking at the 2024 Olokemeji Tako-Tabo Festival in Ikare, the monarch emphasized that tourism is a vital driver of economic growth, creating jobs and generating revenue for the government. The festival, which attracted visitors from across Nigeria and beyond, showcased the cultural richness of the region.
Describing the festival as a source of pride and identity for the community, he highlighted the importance of promoting cultural activities that can draw in tourists and investors. “Cultural preservation is crucial, and I call on our royal leaders and government officials to support these initiatives. Our heritage is our pride, and investing in tourism can yield significant benefits for our economy,” he said.
He pointed out that the Olokemeji Tako-Tabo Hill is a significant attraction due to its natural beauty and cultural history. “This hill has served as a refuge during inter-tribal conflicts, symbolizing our strength and resilience. Unfortunately, we often overlook our heritage in favor of Western influences, which may not be in our best interest.”
The monarch expressed his pride in the community’s efforts to revive Yoruba cultural heritage, evident in this year’s celebration of the Olokemeji festival, which promises a bright future for cultural continuity in Yorubaland.
Tourist Peter Ijigbo echoed the importance of staying connected to one’s roots, saying, “Despite my Christian faith, this is our heritage, and we cannot ignore it. I attended last year’s festival feeling heavy-hearted, but this year, my prayers have been answered. This festival is a cherished tradition, with generations coming to this hill to pray.”
