Lawal stated this on Saturday during the grand finale of the 2024 World Sango Festival, held at the palace of the Alaafin of Oyo in Oyo town.
He said that the 2024 event is particularly significant, marking the first festival since its inclusion in the UNESCO representative list for the intangible cultural heritage of humanity, achieved in December 2023.
Acting governor Lawal expressed that the state government would enhance its support for the festival due to this international recognition.
He emphasized, “I am delighted because today’s event is a fulfillment of the promises that the Governor had given in 2023 when we were campaigning for a return of second term in office.”
“Wherever we went, he committed assurances that our culture would be lifted to higher heights. Today’s event is the manifestation of that commitment.”
The acting governor also highlighted the importance of declaring Isese Day, which honours the Yoruba religion, stating, “Next Tuesday has been declared as Isese Day and a holiday has been declared to that effect.”
Speaking about the significance of the Sango festival, he remarked, “Sango is one of our leading spiritual deities, and by divination, Sango is an Oracle that our people consult to foresee the future.”
Lawal emphasised the intersection of culture and tourism, adding, “What we are doing today encapsulates culture and tourism.”
“The event boosts revenue generation, adds enjoyment to our environment, and enhances our historical and cultural awareness.”
In her address, the Minister of Art, Culture, and Creative Economy, Barr. Hannatu Musa Musawa, affirmed that the UNESCO recognition is a victory not just for Oyo State and the Yoruba people but for all of Nigeria.
She remarked, “This tells the world that the Sango festival is not just an event, but a living testament to the vibrancy and resilience of our culture.”
The minister acknowledged the ongoing efforts of the Oyo community and stressed the importance of cultural heritage in shaping national identity and promoting sustainable development.
She stated, “It is not only a source of pride but also a vital component of our creative economy, providing opportunities for economic growth, community development, and tourism.”
Earlier, the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism in the state, Dr. Wasiu Olatunbosun, welcomed the festival’s growing recognition, noting its potential to become a key cultural tourism attraction.
He highlighted a symposium held to honour the late theatre icon, Duro Ladipo, celebrating his contributions to the portrayal of Sango through the arts.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the occasion, Comrade Ismail Taiwo, praised the festival’s vibrant nature and called for its continued celebration.
Cultural Ambassador to the Alaafin of Oyo, Dr. Paula Gomes, recognised the late Alaafin’s commitment to the festival’s success, emphasising the importance of nurturing the community’s cultural heritage so it remains preserved.
In his appreciation, the son of the late Alaafin, Prince Akeem Adeyemi, expressed his pride in his father’s efforts to secure international acknowledgment for the Sango Festival and urged the Yoruba community both locally and abroad to uphold their cultural traditions.
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