Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has said that culture and tourism remain powerful tools that can strengthen Nigeria’s economy and expand its foreign exchange earnings when properly developed.
He stated this at the 39th Akesan Day Celebration held at Christ Apostolic Church Grammar School, Iperu-Remo, Ikenne Local Government Area of the state, where he explained that many nations have successfully diversified their economies through culture and tourism.
The governor noted that Nigeria has countless cultural festivals capable of attracting visitors from within and outside the country if they are fully promoted and supported.
“Festivals like this bring thousands of visitors who patronize local businesses, artisans, entertainers, food vendors, hotels and of course our transport operators,” Abiodun said.
He added that cultural celebrations such as Lisabi Day, Oronna Day and Ojude Oba serve as platforms for tourism when properly harnessed, leading to job creation and increased investment across communities.
Abiodun said countries around the world have used their cultural identities to drive economic expansion, noting examples like Brazil and Kenya, while pointing to Dubai as a clear case of how tourism can significantly contribute to national GDP.
According to him, Nigeria can record similar progress by consistently developing and promoting its cultural heritage, as festivals naturally attract attention, visitors and positive visibility to communities.
The governor stressed that culture does not only promote shared identity and social harmony but also instills important values such as unity, honesty and communal responsibility.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to promoting culture, preserving history and supporting community development across Ogun State.
Abiodun also commended Tinubu for ongoing efforts to revive the nation’s economy through various reforms, assuring that the state would continue to work with the Federal Government in the interest of the people.
Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Sesan Fagbemi, described Akesan Day as a rallying point for cultural promotion and a platform for shaping the future of the community. He noted that the state government remains steadfast in preserving its cultural heritage.
The Akarigbo and Paramount Ruler of Remoland, Oba Babatunde Ajayi, praised the people of Iperu for maintaining their traditions and commended the organisers for hosting a successful celebration.
Chairman of the occasion and Asiwaju of Remoland, Chief Solomon Onafowokan, applauded the state government for its infrastructural achievements, especially the Gateway International Airport in Iperu. He said the annual celebration encourages cultural engagement and economic progress, urging residents to uphold their heritage.
In his remarks, Chairman of the Iperu Akesan Community Development Association, Chief Taiwo Oyebanji, said the town had recorded notable progress in road projects, physical development and erosion control in the past year.
He called for continued unity in pursuing peace and development, while urging the resolution of boundary issues, improved local security, better power supply and completion of ongoing community projects.
