The Owa Ale of Ikareland, in the Akoko North-East Local Government Area of Ondo State, Adeleke Adegbite-Adedoyin, has called on governments at all levels to facilitate the development and investment of the nation’s tourism sector.
The monarch elaborated that tourism, a significant contributor to any country’s economy, has the potential to create employment opportunities and generate revenue for the government. This potential economic growth fosters a sense of optimism about the future.
Photo Source: Punch Newspapers.
He made this call during the 2024 Olokemeji Tako-Tabo Festival, a significant cultural event held on Saturday in Ikare, the headquarters of the Akoko North-East LG. The festival draws tourists from within and outside Nigeria and is a testament to the region’s rich cultural heritage.
The monarch, who described the festival as a source of pride and identity for his people, stressed the need for governments to encourage and develop cultural activities that would attract tourists and investors. This emphasis on cultural pride and identity gave the audience a sense of belonging and pride.
He said, “Cultural preservation is essential, so I want to call on our royal fathers and government leaders at all levels to support these efforts actively. Our culture is our pride. We need the government to invest in tourism; there are lots of benefits to it. It would generate revenue and employment, and our economy would be better. This call to action instils the audience’s sense of responsibility and duty.
“The Olokemeji Tako-Tabo Hill attracts tourists from near and far due to its rich natural and cultural significance. Historically, this hill (behind the town) protected inter-tribal conflicts, symbolising our strength and resilience. In Nigeria, we have often traded our heritage for the Western world, which may not always serve us well.”
The monarch expressed his pride and joy in the people’s involvement in revitalising various Yoruba cultural heritage and festivals. This was “clearly showcased in this year’s Olokemeji festival celebration, marking a hopeful future for cultural continuity in Yorubaland.” We are all responsible for ensuring that our rich cultural heritage is preserved to the sands of time.
Commenting on the festival, a tourist, Peter Ijigbo, expressed the need for both young and old to remain connected to their roots, saying, “Despite my faith as a Christian, this is our heritage, and we cannot turn our backs on it.
“I came here with a heavy heart last year, but my prayers have been answered today. This festival is a time-honoured tradition, and people have been coming to this hill to pray for generations.”
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