Former presidential adviser Chief Akin Osuntokun advocates for national reorientation in Nigeria through robust investment in tourism and cultural heritage, believing it fosters peace, unity, and economic development, highlighted at the Okemesi Cultural Heritage celebration

Nigeria cultural tourism holds the key to national reorientation, according to former presidential adviser on Political Affairs, Chief Akin Osuntokun.

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He has passionately called for a renewed focus on leveraging the country’s rich cultural heritage and tourism potential to foster peace and unity.

Osuntokun explained that by teaching young people the rich Nigerian culture, traditional etiquette, and the importance of community service, the nation can significantly foster peace, unity, and enhanced tourism development.

The former managing director of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) spoke in Okemesi-Ekiti, headquarters of Okemesi-Ido-Ile LCDA, at the weekend during the community’s triennial Cultural Heritage celebration, which prominently showcases the popular Oladunwo Masquerade.

Osuntokun, who holds the community title of Balogun and chaired this year’s edition of the festival with the theme “Let’s Celebrate Our Rich Cultural Heritage and Values,” stated that the gathering serves as a valuable platform to showcase the community’s rich culture and galvanise support for its socio-economic development.

“The Okemesi Cultural Heritage celebration embodies our commitment to preserving and promoting our rich cultural values, prioritising unity, security, and shared responsibility,” Osuntokun declared.

He added, “The festival also offers a platform for fostering initiatives that uplift the community, while also uniting all sons, daughters, and friends, in a collective celebration of identity.”

The former director-general of the Labour Party Presidential Campaign Council in the last general elections commended Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s infrastructural development, stating that he deserves to be re-elected for a second term, given his overall performance across many areas.

While highlighting the festival’s crucial role in promoting unity, peace, harmony, and cultural pride, he urged the state government to invest more significantly in the artistic and tourism sectors, which he believes would yield substantial economic benefits for the town and the wider state.

Also speaking at the event, the Owa Ooye of Okemesi, Oba Gbadebo Adedeji, explained that contributions from community leaders, businesses, and residents affirmed their dedication to maintaining Okemesi as a safe, inclusive, and prosperous ancient town where traditions are honoured and progress is celebrated.

“As we embrace the spirit of this year’s festivities, let us take pride in our Okemesi-Ekiti identity, and instil in future generations the values of integrity, respect, and community development,” Oba Adedeji urged.