The Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye Orumogege III, has reaffirmed his dedication to the development and prosperity of the ancient city. The monarch made this commitment during the opening of the maiden edition of the Ogbomoso Cradles Carnival held at Ogunlola Hall, Ogbomoso.
Oba Olaoye highlighted his 25-year development agenda as a divine assignment from God. He emphasised that the carnival was conceived to unite the people and advance the region’s economy.
“This 25-year development agenda is a vision from God. It is not my agenda but what God wants to accomplish through us in Ogbomoso. Ignore any distractions; my focus remains solely on achieving this vision for development,” the monarch said.
He thanked Governor Seyi Makinde for his support and the Federal Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy for adopting the carnival as a recognised cultural event in the Southwest.
The Minister for Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, commended the initiative. Represented by the Special Adviser to the President on Job Creation, Hon. Abiola Abdulraheem, she urged the monarch to sustain efforts to promote the region’s cultural heritage.
Similarly, Oyo State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatubosun, praised Oba Olaoye’s commitment. “This is my first time attending a cultural event in Ogbomosoland, and I am thoroughly impressed,” he said.
The Chairman of the Organising Committee, Mr. Williams Adeleye, described the event as a milestone in Ogbomosoland’s history. “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,” he noted.
The event showcased the region’s rich cultural heritage, including local delicacies such as Sakada and Agbon, Sapala, Igbalo, Ekuru and Eko, Amala, and Gbegiri. It concluded with vibrant cultural displays, including performances by various masquerades.
The five-day carnival continues with a lineup of activities to celebrate Ogbomosoland’s heritage and attract investment opportunities to the region. Traditional rulers, high chiefs, government representatives, and cultural enthusiasts were among the dignitaries present.
