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OOPA Seeks Stronger Collaboration With INEC Ahead Of Osun 2026 Guber Election

  As the August 15 Osun governorship election draws near the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, Resident Electoral Commissioner for Osun State, Mrs Oluwatoyin Babalola has assured that Commission would offer full cooperation to media practitioners. Mrs Babalola also assured that the August 15 governorship election in the state will be credible, free, inclusive and transparent. The Osun INEC REC gave this assurance during a courtesy visit by the Osun Online Publishers Association, OOPA, to the INEC State Office, in Osogbo on Monday While restating that the media is a critical stakeholder in election, INEC and the society, she said, "If there is no media the society can not be informed. And when it comes to election matters, there is misinformation and disinformation and the media is needed to correct these anomalies." She also assured that she will work with the media community to ensure a credible, free, fair, inclusive and transparent governorship election.  IN...
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Osun-Osogbo Festival: A Shining Symbol of Cultural Pride and a Wake-Up Call for All Nigerian Towns

 

By Yusuf Idowu Abass 



In the heart of Osun State lies a cultural treasure that continues to draw people from every corner of the globe: the Osun-Osogbo Festival. Every year, thousands gather—regardless of race, religion, or tribe—to celebrate not just a festival, but a living heritage that stands as a testament to the richness of Yoruba tradition and the enduring power of culture.

More than a local festivity, the Osun-Osogbo Festival symbolizes unity, spiritual connection, and cultural preservation. Its significance is so profound that it has earned a coveted place on the UNESCO list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This recognition is not just a badge of honor for Osogbo, but a bold statement to the world that Nigeria’s cultural values are worth celebrating, protecting, and showcasing.

Culture as an Economic and Social Engine

But beyond the rituals and celebrations lies a deeper truth: Culture can drive development. The Osun-Osogbo Festival is not only reviving ancient traditions—it’s also boosting the local economy, creating jobs, empowering artisans, and putting Osogbo on the global tourism map. Hotels are fully booked, local markets thrive, and the spotlight shines brightly on Osun State during this sacred season.


This festival is a reminder that where culture is honored, prosperity often follows.

So, one must ask: Why are so many other towns still asleep? Why are communities with rich histories and vibrant traditions letting them fade into the shadows?


A Call to Action for All Nigerian Communities

Every town, every village, every ethnic group in Nigeria holds a unique piece of our shared cultural puzzle. From the Egungun festivals in Oyo to the fishing festivals in Argungu, and the masquerade parades in the East to the Durbar displays in the North, there are countless cultural gems waiting to be reawakened.

Osun-Osogbo has shown us what is possible when tradition meets intention. It has become a point of contact and inspiration for towns that have long neglected their heritage. It sends a clear message: When we celebrate our culture, the world takes notice.


This is not just about festivity it’s about identity, economy, unity, and global relevance.

Let’s Reclaim Our Cultural Legacy—Together

To the leaders, traditional rulers, youth groups, cultural custodians, and concerned citizens of Nigeria: Now is the time to rise. Now is the time to bring your town's culture into the light. Don’t wait for UNESCO to discover your heritage before you recognize its value. Don’t let modernization erase what makes your people unique.


Let the rhythm of the drums in Osogbo awaken the heartbeat of tradition in your town.


Let us, as a nation of diverse yet united peoples, come together to celebrate our heritage, our stories, our identity.


The Future is Cultural

The Osun-Osogbo Festival has set a standard. It has opened a door. Now it is our collective responsibility to walk through it and revive what makes us truly Nigerian. When we honor the past, we create a future rooted in pride, prosperity, and purpose.


So, as people from far and near gather in Osogbo to celebrate the goddess Osun, let us also gather in our hearts, homes, and hometowns to remember who we are.


Let’s not just celebrate culture once a year—let’s live it, breathe it, and pass it on.


Written by Yusuf Idowu Abass, from Osogbo, Osun State

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