Chief Gani Adams, Aare-Onakakanfo of Yorubaland, has credited the Olokun Festival for transforming Badagry’s economic and spiritual landscape, attracting local and international investments and enhancing the town’s tourism potential.

Chief Gani Adams, the Aare-Onakakanfo of Yorubaland and Chief Promoter of the Olokun Festival Foundation (OFF), has praised the Olokun Festival for driving spiritual and economic benefits to Badagry.

Speaking at the 2024 edition of the festival held at Sultan Beach, Badagry, Adams highlighted the developmental progress that the town has experienced, attributing it to the growing influence of the Olokun and Olosa deities.

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Adams noted, “The ancient town has continued to witness tremendous developments through the blessings of Olokun and Olosa deities.”

He emphasised that the festival’s initial success laid the foundation for its ongoing popularity, attracting local and international investment, which has, in turn, spurred Badagry’s growth as a prime destination for tourism.

He praised the Lagos State Government for its commitment to Badagry’s development, and lauded the ongoing reconstruction of the Lagos-Badagry Expressway, which he said would significantly enhance tourism once completed.

Adams also revealed plans to build a mini-stadium and a 300-room luxury hotel in Badagry to further improve infrastructure and accommodation options for festival-goers.

The festival, now renamed the **Olokun World Festival**, has drawn over 30,000 attendees annually, including dignitaries and cultural enthusiasts from countries such as Brazil, Cuba, and Benin Republic.

Adams explained that the decision to host the festival in Badagry was strategic, aiming to tap into the town’s tourism potential and rich cultural heritage.

The event saw the participation of traditional rulers from Lagos, Ogun, and Benin Republic, along with support from the Lagos State Ministry of Arts, Culture, and Tourism. Mr. Idowu Johnson, a representative of the ministry, encouraged Nigerians to embrace their cultural roots, stressing the importance of passing such traditions down to younger generations.

The festival also featured a call from Oba Adekunle Makama, the Olowu of Owu Kuta, for the federal government to partner with the Olokun Festival Foundation to further promote tourism in the country. Oba Makama stressed the need for national prayers to restore Nigeria’s prosperity.

With its growing international reputation, the Olokun World Festival continues to serve as both a spiritual celebration and an economic catalyst for the Badagry region.