The Aare Onakakanfo of Yoruba land, Iba Gani Adams, has assured invited guests to the 2023 edition of Olokun/Olosa Festival of adequate security.

Adams who spoke at a press conference organised by the Olokun Festival Foundation (OFF) to unveil the programmes for the annual fiesta, said the 2023 edition of Olokun/Olosa Festival has spiritual connection that is tied to the liberation of Nigeria from socio-political and economic challenges and bondage that the country is at present experiencing.

Aare Adams, who was represented by the director of communications of OFF, Yinka Oguntimehin, said the programme for this year festival include a special vigil prayer session between 1am and 3am at Sultan Beach, with each participants holding a dove as spiritual symbolism of peace, blessing and national progress.

“We are coming up with different activities that offer hope for the country and Yoruba land. Part of the programme is the vigil prayer session to be conducted at the front of Olokun for two hours. It is also applicable to Olosa with each participant holding a bag of salt to pray for Nigeria, Yoruba land and all sons and daughters of our race.

“We are also expecting the Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo Olu as the special guest of honour, the commissioner for tourism, arts and culture, Hon. Toke-Benson Ayoyinka and other government officials at the grand finale.

“The Akran of Badagry, Oba De Wheno Aholu Toyi 1 is the royal host, even as Okere of Zaki, Oba Khalid Oyeniyi Olabisi, will be the royal father of the day.

“We also have the Onibereko of Ibereko Kingdom, HRM Oba Israel Adewale Okoya, the Aholu Henwa of Kweme Kingdom, HRM Oba Sejiro Ogungbe James Okiki Arolagbade and the Alapa of Egun Awori, Apa Kingdom, HRM Oba Oyekanmi Ajose, among others as royal fathers of the day.

“The security of all the guests is intact as we have concluded plans to ensure that the venue of the event is fully secured.

“The spiritual advantage and blessing of this year’s edition of Olokun/Olosa festival is not something you can figure out ordinarily as an individual. It is encompassing, revolving around every aspect of our lives.’’