The Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye Orumogege III, has reaffirmed his dedication towards the development and prosperity of Ogbomosoland.
The monarch described his 25-year development agenda for Ogbomosoland as a divine assignment from God, adding that the carnival was conceived to unite his people and advance the region’s economy.
Speaking at the opening of the maiden edition of the Ogbomoso Cradles Carnival, the monarch said his 25-year development agenda was a vision from God and not his personal agenda but what God wants to accomplish through him in Ogbomoso.
He said: “I gnore any distractions; my focus remains solely on achieving this vision for development.”
Oba Olaoye commended Governor Seyi Makinde for his support and applauded Federal Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy for adopting the carnival as a recognized cultural event in the Southwest.
Minister for Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, commended the initiative.
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The Minister, who was represented by the Special Adviser to the President on Job Creation, Hon. Abiola Abdulraheem, urged the monarch to sustain efforts to promote the region’s cultural heritage.
Oyo Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatubosun, praised Oba Olaoye’s commitment.
He said: “This is my first time attending a cultural event in Ogbomosoland, and I am thoroughly impressed.”
Chairman of the Organizing Committee, Mr. Williams Adeleye, described the event as a milestone in Ogbomosoland’s history.
He said:”The Ogbomoso Cradles Carnival is more than a celebration; it is a vision to unite us, boost economic development, and position Ogbomosoland on the global cultural and tourism map.”
The five-day carnival continues with a lineup of activities aimed at celebrating Ogbomosoland’s heritage and attracting investment opportunities to the region. Traditional rulers, high chiefs, government representatives and cultural enthusiasts were among the dignitaries present.