Oyo Seeks UNESCO Recognition For Sango Festival

Oyo State government has renewed its call for the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation’s (UNESCO) recognition of Sango festival held annually in the ancient Oyo town.

The state’s Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatubosun, noted that this would complement the Oyo State government’s existing drive to promote its culture-tourism potential.

According to him, while Oyo town showcases the annual Sango festival by its devotees, there are other cultural festivals that showcase the rich culture of Oyo State.

Olatubosun, reiterated the Oyo State government’s commitment to enlist the World Sango Festival amongst other World Festivals recognized by UNESCO.

He also said the Oyo State government would ensure participation in the World Festival of Sango, coming up in South Africa later in the year, adding that this would give global credibility to the Sango Festival in Oyo Town.

The Bashorun of Oyo land and the Head of Oyomesi, High Chief Akinade Yusuf Ayoola appreciated the Oyo State Government’s efforts at making Sango Festival a World class celebration.

In another development, the Aare Olusese of Ibadanland, Aare Olubunmi Omikemi Egbelade has commended Governor Seyi Makinde for fulfilling the promise he made to traditional religious worshippers during his electioneering campaign to grant their request for special recognition of Isese Day celebration in the state.

He pledged their support for a peaceful Oyo State as they celebrate their faith.

The Aare Olusese made this known during the celebration of Isese festival at Mapo hall, Ibadan, saying that adherents were grateful to the state government for breaking the record, among other South-west states to approve Isese Day.