Oyo, Nigeria – August 16, 2025
The Honourable Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, today presented the UNESCO World Heritage Inscription Certificate for the Sango Festival to His Imperial Majesty, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, the Alaafin of Oyo, and to the Oyo State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatunbosun.
The colourful event drew dignitaries, cultural custodians, youth groups, and members of the Nigerian diaspora who travelled from across Africa, Europe, and the Americas to witness the historic recognition of one of the world’s most vibrant living traditions. The festival, which has long been celebrated in Oyo, has grown into a global platform for unity, cultural pride, and intergenerational exchange.
In her remarks, the Honourable Minister described the occasion as “a proud moment for Nigeria, a proud moment for Africa, and a proud moment for every community that treasures its history while embracing the future.” She commended the Oyo people for sustaining the festival through centuries, noting that the UNESCO inscription is not only a recognition of Yoruba resilience but also a call to harness the festival’s value for tourism, youth empowerment, and national development.
She further noted that the recognition of the Sango Festival aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which places culture and tourism at the centre of economic diversification, creative enterprise, and social cohesion.
“This certificate is a global endorsement of the Sango Festival’s living heritage. It is not just about honouring the past, but also about building the future – inspiring our young people, strengthening community pride, and opening new doors for cultural tourism. The festival now stands as a bridge between Nigeria and the world, uniting people across generations and continents,” Musawa said.
The Honourable Minister applauded the presence of traditional rulers, government officials, cultural scholars, and international visitors, describing their participation as evidence that Nigeria’s heritage belongs to humanity. She highlighted the role of the diaspora in promoting Yoruba culture abroad, adding that their presence at the festival demonstrates how heritage strengthens identity across borders.
The Alaafin of Oyo, His Imperial Majesty Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, in his remarks, expressed gratitude to UNESCO, the Federal Government, and the Oyo State Government for ensuring the sustainability of the Sango Festival. He reaffirmed the commitment of the Oyo traditional institution to preserving cultural practices that inspire unity, resilience, and progress.
With vibrant performances, chants, drumming, and colourful displays, the festival reaffirmed its position as one of Africa’s most iconic cultural celebrations now elevated to the global stage.
By
Sandra Njoku-Samuel
Media Strategist to the Honourable Minister on Media & Communications
Office of the Honourable Minister
Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy