THE Oyo State Government on Tuesday in Ibadan said it would on Thursday hold the maiden edition of the Egungun (Masquerade) Festival, tagged “Our Culture, Our Heritage”.
The state’s Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr Wasiu Olatunbosun who announced this, said the event was targeting the expansion of the state’s economy through cultural tourism.
“The festival will be a rich package of the cultural potential and heritage of the state.
“The event is also intended to attract both local and foreign tourists for investment opportunities in line with the vision of the state governor, Mr Seyi Makinde,” he said.
The Commissioner said the festival, the first of its kind in the South-West, would equally create a platform to promote upcoming cultural artistes in the Fuji and Apala music genres.
“Masquerades hold deep historical significance, embodying the spirit of resilience and unity, which defines the state’s identity and a testament to the enduring legacy of Oyo state’s traditions.
“The event will hold at the Race Course, Lekan Salami Sports Complex in Adamasingba, Ibadan.
“It will feature major masquerades offering a dynamic showcase of culture and dance, as well as music, and a savoury flavour of ‘amala with gbegiri, eko and moinmoin’,” he added.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that “amala with gbegiri” and “eko and moinmoin” are Yoruba delicacies.
Olatunbosun further stated that the event would feature a guest lecture, to be delivered by Chief Ifayemi Elebuibon, the Araba of Osogboland.
He said a Fuji legend, the late Sikiru Ayinde Barrister, who was an indigene of the state, would also be honoured with a posthumous award.
”This is to appreciate his lasting legacy in promoting Fuji music and taking it to the outside world,” Olatunbosun stated.
He said the focus of the Makinde-led administration was to ensure that Egungun Festival was enlisted by world body UNESCO just like the World Sango Festival.
“This is because it has been packaged with good contents through rich cultural heritage and preservation of tradition for coming generations.”
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