In a significant step toward promoting the rich cultural heritage of the Yoruba people, His Imperial Majesty, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi Ojaja II, the Ooni of Ife, has unveiled plans to elevate the traditional Itaajero Festival to an internationally renowned celebration. The announcement was made during the recent Ita Ajero Festival in Ijero Ekiti.
During the event, Ooni Ogunwusi tasked Barrister Wale Ojo-Lanre, Director General of the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, with spearheading the branding of the 2025 Itaajero Festival. Ooni Ogunwusi expressed his unwavering commitment to advancing and promoting the cultural tourism heritage of Oduduwa, the revered progenitor of the Yoruba race.
The Itaajero Festival holds profound significance for the Yoruba people, symbolizing the historic gathering of Oduduwa’s descendants—royal figures—at the palace of the Owa Ajero. This festival serves as a key platform for addressing communal issues affecting the Yoruba race and fostering cultural unity and solidarity.
Ooni Ogunwusi praised the Owa Ajero of Ijero, Oba Joseph Adebayo Adewole, for his dedication to preserving the kingdom’s traditions and values. He highlighted the critical role that traditional institutions play in promoting harmony, peace, and development across Ekiti State and beyond.
Furthermore, the Ooni lauded the efforts of Ekiti State Governor, H.E. Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, for his steadfast support in promoting cultural tourism festivals that celebrate the rich Yoruba heritage. He emphasized that the partnership between traditional institutions and the state government is essential for revitalizing culture and attracting tourism to the region.
“Itaajero is more than just a festival; it is a celebration of our identity and unity as a people,” Ooni Ogunwusi remarked. “As we work towards branding this festival for the international stage, we must ensure it reflects our deep-rooted traditions while embracing modernity. We invite all Yoruba sons and daughters across the globe to join us in this remarkable celebration of culture.”
Barrister Wale Ojo-Lanre expressed his enthusiasm for the Ooni’s vision to globalize the Itaajero Festival. “This is a monumental step toward ensuring that our cultural tourism heritage is recognized and appreciated worldwide. With the support of the Ooni and the Ekiti State Government, we will work tirelessly to make Itaajero a global event,” he said.
The Ooni’s pledge marks the beginning of strategic efforts to attract international attention to the Itaajero Festival, with plans for collaborations with cultural organizations and potential partnerships with tourism boards to enhance promotion and participation.
This year’s Itaajero Festival, which celebrated heritage, unity, and identity, commanded a strong presence, including Ekiti State Governor H.E. Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Chief Mrs. Monisade Afuye, alongside members of the Ekiti State Executive Council.
With preparations for the 2025 festival set to begin under the Ooni’s leadership, the Itaajero Festival promises to become a cornerstone event in Nigeria’s cultural calendar, attracting both local and international participants.
