Aiyedatiwa, Deji advocate use of culture to drive economic growth

Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has stressed the need for the advancement and recognition of culture as a tool to drive economic growth and social cohesion in the state.

Aiyedatiwa stated this during the celebration of the yearly traditional Ulefunta festival, held in Akure, the state capital, at the weekend.

Ulefunta, one of the most popular and respected festivals in Yorubaland, is celebrated to showcase the rich culture of the ancient city of Akure.

The governor, who was represented by the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Rasheed Badmus, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting Akure Kingdom institutions and preserving its cultural heritage.

According to the governor, the “festival symbolises the strength of our tradition, the unwavering faith of our ancestors, the resilience of our people, and the beauty of our diversity. It reminds us of our shared history, our common values, and our collective aspirations.

“As we celebrate this sacred tradition, let us reflect on the significance of Ulefunta. Let us remember the sacrifices of our forebears, who laid the foundation for our prosperity. Let us honour their legacy by embracing our common heritage and fostering unity and cooperation in the Akure kingdom.

“Kabiesi, your exemplary leadership and vision have transformed Ulefunta into a festival of distinction, comparable to the Ojude Oba in Ijebu. Beyond its cultural essence, it has become a unifying platform for Akure sons and daughters towards tackling contemporary socio-economic challenges and inspiring collective growth of their beloved kingdom.”

On his part, the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Aladelusi, described the Ulefunta Festival as an emerging national brand attracting widespread attention.

While noting that Ulefunta is an annual festival and is the peak of all traditional festivals in the ancient town, Deji described the rebranding of the festival as a child of necessity that would encourage the rejuvenation of culture and draw global attention to the rich culture of Akure people.

The Deji of Akure had, at the commencement of the traditional festival, gone into seclusion in the course of the seven-day traditional leave.

Traditional rulers who joined Deji to celebrate this year’s festival include Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye, Owa of Igbara-Oke, Oba Francis Adefarakanmi Agbede, Alara of Ilara-Mokin, Oba Aderemi Adefehinti, Amapetu of Mahin Kingdom, and Oba Olusegun Akinyomi, among other prominent traditional rulers across the country.