By James Ogunnaike, Abeokuta
ABEOKUTA — The Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Gani Adams, has called on governments at all levels to adopt a more strategic approach to tourism development, advocating the separation of the Olumo Festival from Lisabi Day celebrations to unlock its economic potential.
Adams made the appeal in Abeokuta while highlighting the untapped value of Olumo Rock, stressing that Nigeria must prioritise heritage tourism as a key driver of economic diversification.
According to him, Nigeria possesses vast cultural and historical assets that remain underutilised due to inadequate funding and lack of clear policy direction.
He specifically urged the Ogun State Government to establish a dedicated budget for the Olumo Festival, noting that its current linkage with Lisabi Festival has constrained its growth and global competitiveness.
“The potential of Olumo Rock to generate foreign exchange and stimulate local economies is enormous, but it requires focused investment and independent planning,” Adams said.
He explained that the Olumo Festival Foundation had refrained from pushing for funding to avoid overlapping with existing proposals for the Lisabi Festival, adding that separate funding would create new opportunities for tourism expansion.
While commending successive administrations in Ogun State for improving infrastructure at Olumo Rock, Adams said more deliberate efforts are needed to position the site as a world-class destination.
He noted that a well-structured Olumo Festival could drive year-round tourism, create employment, attract international visitors, and support small and medium-scale enterprises.
“With the right investment, the festival can be packaged to global standards, bringing in foreign exchange and boosting commerce in Abeokuta and beyond,” he added.
Adams also called on Nigerians, particularly Egba indigenes, to take ownership of cultural festivals, emphasising that community participation is essential for sustainability.
“My appeal to stakeholders is to give both Lisabi and Olumo festivals equal attention. You cannot have two gold assets and neglect one,” he said.
In his remarks, the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, commended Adams for his efforts in promoting Yoruba culture and traditions.
The monarch urged stronger collaboration between government, traditional institutions, and private stakeholders to reposition Nigeria’s cultural festivals as viable economic drivers.
He also encouraged Egba indigenes at home and in the diaspora to embrace the Olumo Festival as a platform for unity, development, and economic growth.
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