The Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams, has called for stronger government investment in cultural tourism and heritage preservation.
He said the move would unlock economic opportunities, create jobs and position Ondo State as a leading cultural destination.
Adams stated this in a statement after participating in the 2026 Okota Festival held at the Palace Square in Arigidi-Akoko, Ondo State.
According to him, institutionalising the Okota Festival and other cultural festivals and heritage sites as major tourism events will stimulate the local economy, attract visitors and elevate Ondo State’s profile nationally and internationally.
He described cultural tourism as a vital tool for socio-economic development, stressing that strategic investment in the sector would yield long-term benefits for communities.
