Olokun World Festival 2025 will promote Yoruba culture and boost economic growth through tourism, small business empowerment, and cultural exchange

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The Olokun World Festival 2025, organised by the Olokun Festival Foundation (OFF) under the leadership of the Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams, has been described as a powerful blend of spirituality, culture, and economic empowerment.

Speaking at a press conference held at the Oodua House in Lagos, Adams — represented by the Asoju Aare Onakakanfo, Chief Yinka Oguntimehin — said the festival goes beyond spiritual reflection, serving as a major platform to unlock Nigeria’s economic potential, especially for small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

“The Olokun World Festival is more than a spiritual encounter. It attracts tourism, boosts local trade, and empowers small businesses,” Adams stated.

“Hundreds of millions of naira are injected into the local economy each year through hospitality, transport, crafts, and food sales.”

He commended members of the Oodua Peoples Congress (OPC) for their continued dedication to preserving Yoruba culture and identity, describing the festival as a key driver of cultural pride and unity.

Oguntimehin highlighted that this year’s edition, themed around spiritual renewal and economic growth, would feature diverse programmes such as interfaith prayers, a fashion show, a beauty pageant, visits to motherless babies’ homes, and a midnight prayer at Kakanfo Beach, Badagry.

He further revealed that the Foundation had acquired a permanent beach site to serve as a recreation centre and home for future editions of the festival. “We are calling on private sponsors and stakeholders to join hands with us to sustain this cultural legacy,” he added.

Dignitaries expected at the grand finale include Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs Toke Benson-Awoyinka, and other top government officials.

Also read: Lagos State endorses Olokun World Festival as major cultural celebration

According to Adams, the Olokun World Festival 2025 will not only strengthen spiritual values but also drive cultural tourism and economic revitalisation, turning Badagry into a hub of creativity, enterprise, and heritage celebration.