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    Okota festival: Partner with us to fight insecurity, Gani Adams urges South-west govs

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    Aareonakakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams, has reaffirmed his commitment to combat the spate of insecurity in the South West region, assuring that the menace in the region would be addressed within six months if the governors eventually partner with him.

    Iba Adams gave the assurances in Arigidi Akoko, Ondo State, while speaking at the 2024 edition of the Okota Festival, where he also reiterated the need for a thorough overhaul of the 1999 Constitution.

     

    Also read:2024 Osun Osogbo festival: Govt assures residents, participants of adequate security

     

    The Yoruba generalissimo, in a release made available to newsmen by Media Assistant, Mr. Kehinde Aderemi, stated that addressing the structural imbalances of the Nigerian nation had become important, especially now that more regions were agitating for self-determination.

    The Yoruba generalissimo, while stressing the need for regionalism as the best option for Nigeria and Nigerians, argued that the 1999 Constitution was the greatest undoing of the Nigerian nation, noting also that the constitution was the making of the military and was largely embellished with fraught processes and contents.

    “By virtue of my position as the Aareonakakanfo of Yoruba land, I can still partner with the governors of the South West region to reenact what the past Aareonakakanfos did, which was to defend the people of Yorubaland.

    “Let me make it clear that I am not asking the governors to hand over their security structure to us. However, I have made this clear several times in my statements and letters: we want to partner with the governors to unravel the security scourge in the South West region.

    “And I assure you that if they would partner with us to fight insecurity, we would see a huge difference within six months. I am sure that if we get it right in the South West, other regions will follow in due course,” Iba Adams said.

    The royal father of the day, Oba Yisa Abu Olanipekun, who was also the royal host, praised Iba Adams for using the Oodua People’s Congress (OPC) platform to promote the cultural identity of Yoruba land.

    The monarch said the OPC, under the leadership of Iba Adams, had been consistent in promoting the culture and tradition of the people of Arigidi town for the past 16 years, adding that the town had also made significant progress by celebrating the festival.

    “This year’s festival is another opportunity for us to unite and come up with ideas that can further strengthen the bond between us.

    “Arigidi Akoko is blessed with many traditional festivals. These festivals include the popular Ajagbo Festival, the Agbogbo Festival, and the New Yam Festival.

    “These festivals are very important to the people of Arigidi because they bring about unity, peace, and tranquillity that are needed to fulfil the destiny of this ancient town.

    “Let me say it again: there’s a need for us to continue to use these festivals as the best opportunity for us to bring back the lost glory to Arigidi and indeed the entire Yorubaland,” Oba Olanipekun said.

    The Ondo State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Rasheed Badmus, assured the people of Arigidi Akoko that the state government would do everything possible to promote the culture and tradition of the people of the state.

    The commissioner, who was represented by Mr Obafemi Sogbe, said the state government was making efforts to use festivals like the Okota to drive the tourism potential of the state.

    “The state government, under the leadership of our amiable Governor Orimisan, is doing everything that is possible to reinvent the joy inherent in celebrating the cultural fiesta across the state as it was in the good olden days.

    “We want to use festivals like the Okota to drive the tourism potential of the state and bring about the lost glory of the state.

    “We thank the Kabiesi, Oba Yisa Abu Olanipekun, and Aareonakakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Abiodun Ige Adams, for their efforts in promoting the cultural identity of the people of this town.

    “I urge all other traditional rulers that are present here to use this great opportunity as a template to promote and celebrate their different but unique culture in the state,” he said.

    Also speaking, Owa Ale of Ikare Akoko, Oba Adeleke Adedoyin, in his remarks, said that as a traditional ruler and custodian of culture and tradition, it was his responsibility to promote the culture of his town.

    The monarch, while declaring that religion is different from tradition, urged participants to concentrate more on efforts that could help in advancing the cause of cultural promotion.

    Director General, Bureau of Tourism Development, Ekiti State, Ambassador Wale Ojo-Lanre, in his own remark, urged all sons and daughters of Arigidi Akoko to support any initiative that would help promote the tourism potentials of the state, noting that the tourism sector is a big platform for both social and economic development.

    “I am happy that the Kabiesi, Zaki of Arigidi Akoko, Oba Yisa Olanipekun, and the Aare Onakakanfo of Yoruba Land, Iba Gani Abiodun Ige Adams, have been at the vanguard of promoting the culture of the people of Arigidi, and by doing that, they are sending a positive message to drive the tourism potentials of Ondo State and Arigidi Akoko,” he said.

    Other royal fathers that were present at the festival include the Owa Ale of Ikare Akoko, HRM Oba Adeleke Adedoyin; Olubaran of Ibaramu, Oba Olusegun Atibioke; Olora of Ora Ajowa Akoko, Oba Adeolu Bolarinwa; Oluyani of Iyani, Oba Joel Sunday Daud; Onise of Ise, Oba Richard Olu Ayodele; Oluburupa of Iburupa, Oba Babatunde Olaleye; Oloso of Oso Ajowa, Oba Jimoh Clement; the Olori of Oro Ajowa, Oba Timothy Ipinmoroti; the Elese of Ese, Oba DA Adewunmi; the Alauga of Auga, Oba SK Agunloye, among others.

    Leaders of the National Executive Council (NEC) and National Coordinating Council (NCC), as well as the Aareonakakanfo Chiefs-in-Civil, were also present at the event.

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    Festivals

    Ogun State gears up for historic 2024 national sports festival

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    2024 National Sports Festival Ogun

    Ogun State is set to host the 2024 National Sports Festival, with Premium Trust Bank as lead sponsor, promising a world-class sporting event

     

    The **Federal Government** has commended **Ogun State** for its dedication to hosting a **world-class National Sports Festival (NSF)** as preparations for the **Gateway Games 2024** reach advanced stages.

    Also read: Ogun State to boost tourism through cultural networking and Adire fabric revitalisation

    On **Wednesday in Abeokuta**, the **Local Organising Committee (LOC)**, backed by the **National Sports Commission (NSC)**, officially unveiled **Premium Trust Bank** as the **lead sponsor** of the event in a **record-breaking sponsorship deal**.

    Chairman of the **NSC, Mallam Shehu Dikko**, praised Ogun State’s **exceptional commitment** to organising a **seamless and memorable** festival. He also highlighted the **crucial role of corporate sponsorships** in shaping the future of Nigerian sports.

    “The unveiling of Premium Trust Bank as the lead sponsor for the **2024 National Sports Festival** is a testament to the rising confidence of the **private sector** in Nigerian sports. Ogun State has demonstrated an extraordinary level of commitment, and this partnership is a step toward elevating the festival to **exceptional standards**,” Dikko said.

    Beyond the competition, Dikko emphasised the **festival’s impact** on **tourism, job creation, and economic growth** in Ogun State.

    “The **Gateway Games 2024** will not only showcase **athletic excellence** but will also **boost local businesses**, create **employment opportunities**, and promote Ogun State as a hub for **sports and economic development**,” he added.

    The **National Sports Festival**, often referred to as the **Nigerian Olympics**, is owned by the **NSC** and will feature **over 20,000 participants** from **36 states and the FCT**, with the introduction of **Invited Junior Athletes (IJA)** as the **38th state**.

    Scheduled to run from **16 to 30 May 2025**, the festival is set to be **one of the largest sporting events in Nigeria’s history**.

    “This festival is more than just a sporting event; it is a **celebration of talent, resilience, and the boundless potential of Nigerian sports**. With Ogun State’s level of preparation and the commitment of all stakeholders, I have no doubt that **Gateway Games 2024** will be the most remarkable edition yet,” Dikko stated.

    The **NSC** has reaffirmed its **full support** for Ogun State, ensuring that all **necessary resources and enablers** are in place for a **successful and historic** event.

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    Phynofest returns to Enugu: Phyno announces grand comeback of iconic concert

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    Phynofest 2025

    Phyno announces the return of Phynofest to Enugu in 2025, promising a bigger and better experience for fans. Get ready for an unforgettable celebration

     

    Phyno, the Nigerian rapper and music legend, has officially revealed that his highly anticipated annual concert, *Phynofest*, will be making a spectacular return to Enugu in 2025.

    Also read: Enugu to host 23rd national sports festival in 2026

    After a brief hiatus, the event, renowned for selling out in previous editions, is set to make a grand comeback, thrilling fans with a bigger and better show than ever before.

    Taking to social media to share the exciting news, Phyno expressed his excitement and anticipation for the event. He wrote, “Enugu, it’s about to be lit again! Phynofest is back, and this year we’re going bigger and better. You all have been asking for it, and now it’s time to make history again.”

    The popular rapper, whose real name is Chibuzor Nelson Azubuike, also shared that part of his visit to the state would involve discussions with the governor regarding plans for the November 2025 concert.

    Emphasising the importance of government support, Phyno noted that it would be crucial in ensuring the event’s success and boosting tourism in the state.

    Since its inception, Phynofest has become one of Nigeria’s most celebrated and iconic music festivals. Known for its electrifying performances, star-studded lineups, and thrilling atmosphere, Phynofest attracts thousands of fans to Enugu, the Coal City.

    The concert has previously featured some of Nigeria’s biggest music stars, including Olamide, Flavour, and Zoro, making it an unforgettable experience for all attendees.

    Phyno’s loyal fanbase, particularly in the Eastern region, eagerly awaits the event each year, and this year’s return has sparked widespread excitement.

    Fans have already begun speculating about potential guest appearances and surprises, with many commenting online about the anticipation. One fan expressed on Instagram, “We’ve missed this! Phynofest always brings the whole state together.”

    Phyno, known for his distinctive blend of rap and indigenous Igbo sounds, continues to shape the Nigerian music landscape.

    His influence spans beyond the music scene, with his cultural contributions making him a significant figure in the Eastern part of Nigeria and throughout the country.

    Phynofest has become a symbol of this cultural impact, drawing attention to the state of Enugu while providing an unparalleled platform for music lovers to celebrate Nigerian talent.

    Though the official venue for the 2025 Phynofest is yet to be revealed, Phyno reassured fans that further announcements would follow soon, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the next big update.

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    Katsina State to host 2025 ECOWAS food, cultural festival

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    2025 ECOWAS Food and Cultural Festival

    Katsina State will host the 2025 ECOWAS Food and Cultural Festival, promoting African cultural values, food security, and regional development

     

    Katsina State, in Nigeria’s North West, has been chosen to host the 2025 ECOWAS Food and Cultural Festival, themed *“African Cultural Values and Food Security for Peace and Development.”*

    Also read: Detty December in Lagos boosts economy, tourism, entertainment

    This prestigious event aims to unite key stakeholders to address security challenges affecting farming and agriculture across Nigeria and the broader West African region.

    The announcement was made by Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Malam Dikko Umar Radda.

    Scheduled for 2025, the festival will spotlight Katsina as a hub for cultural heritage, agricultural innovation, and economic development.

    Governor Radda stated that the festival would emphasise African cultural values while advancing food security, peace, and development across the ECOWAS region.

    It is expected to attract local and international investors in agriculture, boosting economic opportunities in Katsina State.

    The festival will also create a ripple effect across multiple industries, including event management, tourism, logistics, and local markets. These opportunities will benefit the state’s youth, artisans, and small businesses.

    Dr. Kabir Ali Masanawa, Executive Director/CEO of the Katsina State History and Culture Bureau, highlighted the festival’s potential to stimulate demand for hospitality services, food, and transportation.

    The influx of visitors will boost the local economy while showcasing Katsina’s rich cultural heritage.

    Ambassador Prince Felix Ihonre, Director-General of the ECOWAS Food and Cultural Festival, commended Governor Radda for his warm reception and unwavering support, describing the upcoming festival as a landmark event for the region.

    The 2025 ECOWAS Food and Cultural Festival is expected to be a transformative event, reinforcing Katsina State’s role as a cultural and agricultural leader in West Africa.

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