MINISTRY OF TOURISM REITERATES COMMITMENT TO PROMOTING, PRESERVING LAGOS’ CULTURAL HERITAGE

… As Grand Finale of Elegba Festival Holds in Ikate Land

The Lagos State Government has said it will continue to support traditional festivals in the State as a means to promote the cultural heritage of Lagos State.

The Special Adviser to the State Governor on Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mr. Idris Aregbe made this known at the annual Elegba festival in Ikate Kingdom.

The Special Adviser, who was represented by the CEO. Lagos State Council for Arts and Culture, Mr. Idowu Johnson, revealed that the festival is a vibrant celebration of culture, tradition, and community which has been in existence since the last 15th century commonly within the coastal areas of the State.

Aregbe stated further that as part of Lagos State’s commitments to preserving and promoting cultural heritage, the State Government actively supports the festival with its captivating performances, colourful costumes, and rhythmic music, drawing locals and visitors alike.

The Special Adviser said, “Whether you’re a dance enthusiast or simply curious about the rich cultural tapestry of Lagos, the Elegba festival is a must-attend occasion. The Elegba festival is a vibrant celebration held annually in the Ikate-Elegushi Kingdom, Lagos. Led by the Elegushi of Ikate Land, HRM. Oba Saheed Ademola Elegushi, this event honours cultural heritage and fosters community spirit”.

The Festival not only features a blend of cultural and spiritual activities, drawing participants from the seven coastal Awori communities of Ido, Oniru, Ikate-Elegushi, Ojora, Ilashe, Irede and Ilado. It’s also a time of joy, dance, and connection, as people from far and wide come together to celebrate their shared traditions.

The community Obas, Chiefs and members, particularly traditionalists from the riverine areas of the State, gathered in large numbers, showcasing colourful and spontaneous dance and musical performances.

Furthermore, Chief Lateef Aderibigbe Ajose, the Opeluwa Onido of Lagos noted that the final ceremony of the seven-day festival is to promote peaceful co-existence within the coastal community and its environs.

He also averred that the festival also promotes tourism because friends and family from Nigeria and Abroad come together to celebrate the Festival annually.

According to the Ikate chiefs, the festival also serves as a form of reunion for the sons and daughters of Olofin, home and abroad, gathering at the Ikate-Elegushi kingdom Eti-Osa, Lagos.