By Mashe Umaru Gwamna
The Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA) has announced a strategic partnership with the Igbobi-Sabe Kingdom to transform the Gelede Festival into a premier national cultural celebration. This collaboration aims to strengthen Nigeria’s cultural tourism sector and showcase indigenous heritage on a global scale.
The Director-General of the NTDA, Ola Awakan, led a delegation on a courtesy visit to the Igbobi-Sabe Kingdom in Yaba.
They were received by His Royal Majesty, Oba Owolabi Adeyemi Adeshina Adeniyi (Maforunyomi I), the Onisabe of Igbobi-Sabe, alongside Olori Mosunmola Anike Adeniyi and the kingdom’s council of chiefs.
During the visit, Oba Adeniyi expressed his commitment to a strategic alliance, highlighting the kingdom’s readiness to support national tourism development.
He showcased several key cultural assets, including: the Gelede Masquerades: A profound cultural symbol representing fertility and childbirth, and ancient Iroko trees- two historic landmarks within the community, each boasting a lifespan of over 250 years.
“I appreciate your efforts in leveraging your office to drive innovation and reposition Nigeria’s cultural heritage on a global stage,” the Monarch remarked, commending the Director-General’s vision.
In response, DG Ola Awakan emphasized that traditional institutions are the backbone of the tourism sector. He stressed that storytelling is the key to unlocking the economic and cultural value of Nigeria’s history.
To bring this vision to life, the DG proposed two major initiatives :
NITOUREY Project Integration: Featuring the kingdom’s assets on Africa’s first tourism-dedicated streaming platform to reach international audiences and systematically recording the history of the Gelede Masquerades and the ancient Iroko trees to boost their appeal to tourists.
Following a guided tour of an ancient Iroko tree site in Abule Ijesa, the Director-General noted that the location possesses the significant historical value required for recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
He urged the traditional leadership to work hand-in-hand with the NTDA to revitalize these landmarks, ensuring they become prominent pillars of Nigeria’s growing tourism economy.
