The Ogun State Government has officially reaffirmed its profound commitment to developing a robust and competitive culture and tourism sector, positioning these areas as central pillars for stimulating widespread economic growth. This pivotal announcement was made by Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun, speaking through his Deputy, Engr. Noimot Salako Oyedele, during the highly anticipated launch of the OgunRewa Cultural Magazine. The government’s comprehensive strategy is designed to move beyond rhetoric, involving tangible actions such as the extensive upgrading of cultural centers, the dedicated preservation of historically significant heritage sites, and the amplified promotion of local festivals. A key highlight of this initiative is the planned Afro Drum Festival in 2026, an event conceived to showcase both the well-known and previously untapped cultural assets of the region. This strategic push aims to not only celebrate the state’s identity but also to create a sustainable economic model built on its unique cultural capital, fostering job creation and attracting investment. The initiative represents a holistic approach to development, integrating cultural preservation with economic innovation.
A Strategic Vision for Cultural Renaissance
Delving deeper into the administration’s blueprint, the revitalization of the culture and tourism sector is anchored in a series of targeted investments and strategic programming designed to unlock its full economic potential. The plan to upgrade cultural centers involves not just cosmetic changes but a complete modernization of facilities to meet international standards, making them suitable for hosting large-scale events, exhibitions, and performances that can attract a global audience. Simultaneously, a concerted effort is being made to preserve significant heritage sites through a combination of expert conservation techniques and community engagement, ensuring that these historical landmarks are protected from decay and made more accessible to both scholars and tourists. This dual approach of modernization and preservation is critical to maintaining cultural authenticity while enhancing the overall visitor experience. A cornerstone of the promotional strategy is the reinvigoration of local festivals. The forthcoming Afro Drum Festival, scheduled for 2026, is being meticulously planned to serve as a platform for a wide array of cultural expressions, from traditional music and dance to contemporary arts, thereby showcasing the full spectrum of Ogun State’s creative talent to the world.
The Role of Media in Preserving Heritage
The launch of the OgunRewa Cultural Magazine marked a pivotal moment in this strategic push, establishing a crucial medium for documenting and disseminating the state’s cultural narrative. The Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Sesan Fagbayi, articulated that the state was a rich reservoir of cultural wealth, encompassing vibrant festivals, historical landmarks, intricate crafts, compelling folklore, and diverse artistic expressions. He emphasized that these cultural elements were not merely historical relics but the foundational identity of the state and powerful instruments for tourism development and community cohesion. The OgunRewa Magazine was therefore presented as a cornerstone of this initiative, conceived as a vital visual and literary archive. Its purpose was defined as capturing and showcasing the state’s diverse heritage and burgeoning creative industries. This publication was intended to serve as a lasting resource for cultural promotion, rigorous research, public education, and enhanced tourism visibility, thereby solidifying Ogun’s reputation as a cultural powerhouse. In a gesture of inclusivity, the government extended a formal call to action, inviting artists, historians, writers, and community custodians to collaborate in sustaining and enriching the publication.
