Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo
The world-famous Osun-Osogbo Festival was held yesterday with more than 500,000 participants from all over the world.
Osun-Osogbo Festival is celebrated in August every year at the Grove. The festival attracts thousands of Osun worshippers, spectators and tourists from across the globe.
The Osun-Osogbo Festival is a two-week celebration of culture, spirituality, and heritage held annually in Osogbo, South West Nigeria.
Speaking on this year festival, Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, commended Oba Jimoh Olanipekun Oyetunji, Larooye II, Ataoja of Osogbo, and all sons and daughters of Osogbo at home and in the diaspora on the celebration of the Osun-Osogbo Festival.
The governor described the annual festival as a priceless cultural and spiritual heritage that reflects the enduring bond between the people of Osogbo and the sacred River Osun, celebrating centuries of history and faith.
He noted that the festival remains one of Africa’s foremost traditional festivals and a proud symbol of Yoruba civilisation.
The governor stated that the sacred procession led by the Arugba, the royal presence of the Ataoja, the traditional rites at the Osun Sacred Grove, the prayers, chants, and cultural displays all represent our culture and preserved heritage across generations while projecting Osun State to the global stage.
Adeleke commended the monarch, Ataoja of Osogbo, the Osun Priestess (Iya Osun), the Arugba, traditional institutions, devotees, cultural custodians, and the entire people of Osogbo for sustaining a festival that has continued to attract visitors, researchers, and tourists from across the world.
“On behalf of the Government and the good people of Osun State, I heartily felicitate with Kabiyesi, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Jimoh Olanipekun Oyetunji, Larooye II, Ataoja of Osogbo, and the entire people of Osogbo on this year’s Osun-Osogbo Festival.
“As we celebrate this sacred tradition, may the blessings of Osun continue to bring peace, prosperity, and progress to our dear state.”
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to preserving Osun’s rich cultural heritage and protecting the Osun Sacred Grove as a globally treasured heritage site.
He added that the administration will continue to support initiatives that promote tourism, cultural diplomacy, and economic opportunities for the people accordingly.