Adeleke, Oyebamiji pledge to boost Osun’s culture, tourism

Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke and his main challenger, Bola Oyebamiji, have outlined their commitments to revitalizing the state's culture and tourism sectors.

The gubernatorial candidates shared their visions separately at the 79th birthday celebration of renowned Ifa priest and cultural icon Ifayemi Elebibon in Osogbo. Both leaders acknowledged Elebibon as a significant figure and expressed their dedication to promoting Osun's cultural heritage.

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Culture and tourism are two major areas, where apart from identifying with our race, it is also a way of getting revenue for the State. In all parts of the globe, African and especially Yoruba culture is being promoted in special ways. If we can package it in such a way Christians are packaging Jerusalem and the Muslims are packaging the Hajj to Saudi Arabia, it should be a source of income for us here and a way of encouraging our younger ones to love our culture and traditions.

Governor Adeleke, represented by the State Commissioner for Political Affairs and Intergovernmental Relations, Dr. Biyi Odunlade, described Elebibon as an "icon and pride of the state." Odunlade stated that Adeleke's administration views culture and tourism as vital areas for both revenue generation and identifying with the state's racial heritage. He drew a parallel to how Christians package Jerusalem and Muslims package the Hajj, suggesting a similar approach for Yoruba culture to generate income and foster cultural appreciation among youth.

Representing Oyebamiji, Amitolu Shittu lauded Elebibon's contributions and stated that an APC administration would utilize expert insights to expand the sector. Shittu highlighted Oyebamiji's "big idea" to enhance tourist sites, making them more attractive to global investors. He emphasized Osun's potential to create jobs and become a significant economic contributor through strategic investment in culture and tourism.

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I am here representing Osun APC governorship candidate, Bola Oyebamiji. He respects Baba Elebuibon, and he recognises his contributions towards making Osun known across the globe. On our plans when elected, Oyebamiji has a big idea to make the culture and tourism sector bigger and more attractive to investors across the globe. He has identified those tourist sites, and efforts will be made towards making the sites more attractive. Osun has potential to create jobs and make the sector a big money spinner with the right ideas. Oyebamiji is ready to invest in the sector.