The Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, was a distinguished guest at the 2025 edition of the iconic Ojude-Oba Festival, bringing national prominence and cultural reverence to one of Nigeria’s most celebrated traditional events.
The Minister’s participation in the grand royal procession—alongside traditional rulers, cultural custodians, and dignitaries—underscored the Federal Government’s ongoing commitment to leveraging Nigeria’s rich cultural festivals to drive unity, economic growth, and global recognition of the country’s creative potential.
“Ojude-Oba is not only a tribute to our ancestors but a bridge to our collective future,” Minister Musawa said in her address. “In every procession, every drumbeat, and every dance step lies the spirit of a people bound by dignity, beauty, and resilience. It is through festivals like this that we tell our story to the world—with pride and purpose.”
The Ojude-Oba Festival—widely regarded as one of Africa’s most vibrant and historically significant cultural gatherings—continues to attract global interest, with the 2025 edition drawing thousands of participants and observers from across Nigeria and the diaspora. The festival has evolved into a dynamic platform connecting culture with commerce, innovation, and national identity.
Among the prominent attendees at this year’s event were:
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His Excellency Prince Dapo Abiodun, MFR, CON, Executive Governor of Ogun State
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Dare Alebiosu, Chairman, Ijebu-Ode Local Government
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Valentine Ozigbo, Chairman, Feet ‘N’ Tricks
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Dr. Lai Labode, Founder and CEO, Cashtoken
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Hon. Aisha Adamu Augie, Director-General, Centre for Black and African Arts and Civilization (CBAAC)
These high-level engagements served to reinforce the festival’s growing international appeal and echoed the Ministry’s Motherland 2025 initiative, which seeks to reconnect the Nigerian diaspora with their roots through immersive cultural experiences.
Highlights of the Minister’s participation included:
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A ceremonial tribute to the Awujale of Ijebuland, His Royal Majesty Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, during the royal procession
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Traditional music and dance performances showcasing Ijebu culture
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Interactions with local artisans and community leaders focused on cultural investment, tourism promotion, and creative industry development
This visit aligns with the Ministry’s Destination 2030: Nigeria Everywhere framework—an integral component of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. The strategy aims to position culture at the core of national development while promoting inclusive economic opportunities and enhancing Nigeria’s visibility on the global stage.
About the Ministry
The Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, under the leadership of Honourable Hannatu Musa Musawa, is committed to preserving Nigeria’s cultural heritage, advancing the creative industries, and transforming Nigeria into a premier destination for cultural tourism. Through innovative policies and strategic collaborations, the Ministry is redefining how culture empowers communities, inspires creativity, and strengthens Nigeria’s presence on the world stage.
