In a bold move to harness Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage for global tourism, the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA) has initiated a strategic partnership with the Igbobi-Sabe Kingdom in Yaba, Lagos, aimed at transforming the historic Gelede Festival into a nationally recognised cultural celebration.
During a high-profile courtesy visit, NTDA Director-General Ola Awakan was warmly received by HRM Oba Owolabi Adeshina Adeyemi Adeniyi, the Onisabe of Igbobi-Sabe Kingdom, alongside other traditional leaders. The visit featured a vibrant cultural procession by the revered Gelede Masquerades, showcasing the colourful masks, rhythmic dances, and theatrical performances that define this unique Yoruba spectacle.
The Gelede Festival, inscribed by UNESCO as part of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity, is a spectacular Yoruba tradition that celebrates the power of women, fertility, and social harmony through intricate masquerades, songs, and dances. In Igbobi-Sabe, the kingdom has successfully revived the festival, blending ancestral rituals with contemporary appeal.
Awakan emphasised NTDA’s vision to elevate the festival beyond its local roots, positioning it as a major national event capable of attracting both domestic and international tourists. He also highlighted the kingdom’s other assets, including two ancient Iroko trees believed to be over 250 years old, as potential flagship attractions for cultural tourism development.
The NTDA chief proposed integrating Igbobi-Sabe’s heritage into national initiatives such as the NITOUREY Project, Nigeria’s dedicated tourism streaming platform, to amplify visibility and economic impact.
Oba Owolabi Adeniyi expressed the kingdom’s full readiness to collaborate, commending the NTDA for its commitment to preserving and promoting Nigeria’s diverse cultural treasures. The partnership is expected to boost local economies, create jobs, and place the Gelede Festival firmly on the national tourism calendar.
This collaboration marks a significant step in NTDA’s drive to unlock the full potential of Nigeria’s intangible cultural heritage, turning living traditions into sustainable drivers of tourism and national pride.
