The Owa Ale of Ikareland, in the Akoko North-East Local Government Area of Ondo State, Adeleke Adegbite-Adedoyin, has called on governments at all levels to facilitate the development and investment of the nation’s tourism sector.
The monarch explained that tourism was one of the ways to boost the economy of any country, as it would generate employment and revenue for the government.
He stated this at the 2024 Olokemeji Tako-Tabo Festival, held in Ikare, the headquarters of the Akoko North-East LG, on Saturday. The annual festival had in attendance tourists from inside and outside Nigeria.
The monarch who described the festival as a source of pride and identity for his people, stressed the need for governments to encourage and develop cultural activities that would attract investment from tourists and investors.
He said, ” This cultural preservation is essential, so I want to call on our royal fathers and government leaders at all levels to actively support these efforts. Our culture is our pride. We need the government to invest in tourism, there are lots of benefits to it. It would generate revenue and employment, and our economy would be better for it.
“The Olokemeji Tako-Tabo Hill attracts tourists from near and far, due to its rich natural and cultural significance. Historically, this hill (behind the town) provided protection during inter-tribal conflicts, symbolising our strength and resilience. In Nigeria, we have often traded our heritage for the Western world, which may not always serve us well,”
The monarch expressed pride and joy in the people’s involvement in revitalising various Yoruba cultural heritage and festivals, which was “clearly showcased in this year’s Olokemeji festival celebration, marking a hopeful future for cultural continuity in Yorubaland.”
Commenting on the festival, a tourist, Peter Ijigbo, expressed the need for both young and old to remain connected to their roots, saying, “Despite my faith as a Christian, this is our heritage, and we cannot turn our backs on it.
“I came here last year with a heavy heart, but today, my prayers have been answered. This festival is a time-honoured tradition, and people have been coming to this hill to pray for generations.”