The Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Gani Adams, has called for strategic investment in the Olumo Festival, urging its separation from the Lisabi Day celebrations to unlock its full economic potential.

He made the call during the week-long Lisabi Festival at Olumo Rock, stressing that independent government budgeting is crucial to transforming the historic site into a global tourism asset.

Adams noted that despite current economic challenges, the revenue-generating potential of Olumo Rock remains largely untapped due to inadequate funding and lack of dedicated planning.

He explained that while the Olumo Festival Foundation has taken steps to upgrade infrastructure — including the introduction of a new pavilion — sustained growth of the event requires structured financial commitment from the Ogun State Government.

Over the years, successive administrations have invested in improving access and facilities at Olumo Rock to boost tourism. Adams commended these efforts, saying they have helped promote the rich cultural heritage of the Egba people while increasing revenue for the state and the country.

“We encourage the Ogun State Government to continue pushing the boundaries to ensure that Nigeria fully harnesses the immense tourism and commercial potential of this historic site,” he said.

The Yoruba leader, however, explained that the foundation had deliberately avoided pushing for funding to prevent conflicts with the Lisabi Festival’s financial structure.

“We do not want to duplicate the proposal already submitted by the Lisabi Festival to the Governor. If the government provides separate funding for the Olumo Festival, we will appreciate it,” he said.

Adams emphasised that Olumo Rock holds unique historical and cultural significance that can be leveraged to create a globally competitive tourism destination. He added that developing the Olumo Festival would help establish a year-round calendar of economic activities rather than a single seasonal event.

“My charge to the state government, Kabiyesi Alake, and organisers is that both the Lisabi and Olumo festivals should be given equal attention and promoted with the same vigour. You cannot have two valuable assets and neglect one,” he said.

He further noted that with adequate funding and proper packaging, the festival could attract international visitors, generate foreign exchange, and stimulate local commerce in Abeokuta.

Adams also called on Egba indigenes to support the Olumo Festival Foundation and contribute to its development as a viable economic platform.

He concluded that while traditional institutions, including the Alake of Egbaland, have provided a strong foundation, the transition of the festival into a global tourism brand depends largely on strategic investment and resource allocation.

Also speaking, the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, commended Adams for his commitment to promoting Yoruba culture and assured him of continued support.

The monarch urged Egba sons and daughters to embrace the Olumo Festival as a tool for economic growth and development in Ogun State. (The Guardian)