Diplomatist Special Report Nigeria | Page 44

Ojude Oba festival [SPECIAL REPORT] Unity in Diversity Tourism in Nigeria centres largely on events, due to the country's diverse ethnic groups. The annual Ijebus’ is a perfect example of unity reigning supreme among the citizens of Nigeria. Typically held on the third day after Eid-el Kabir, the Ojude Oba festival is a unique celebration that unites people of diff erent faiths, irrespective of its origins in Islam. Another example of spreading the goodwill of tourism to Nigeria is the Awujale Palace Extension. International visitors are a fi xture at the Palace, sampling the delights of the spectacular displays that prove Nigeria to be a place of joy, glamour and dance. Importantly, the organisers are also ensuring the festival’s sustainability with the youth participation. One stop that everyone must make is to Ore. It's probably one of the most strategic towns in the entire country and played a key role in the Nigerian Civil War. But Ore is even more famous for something else — the food! Every bus leaving Lagos, whether going North or South must stop at Ore. In fact, the local economy of Ore is heavily dependent on these tourist quick stops. And when it comes to festivals, Nigeria is not lacking. From the Argungu Fishing Festival to Osun Osogbo Festival, Abuja Carnival, Calabar Christmas Carnival, Cross Rivers State Carnival, Eyo Festival, Igue Festival, Ojude Oba Festival, Badagry Festival, Durba Festival, almost every state in the country hosts one or another festivals round the year. Durba Festival Argungu Fishing Festival Rural over Urban Since Nigerian culture is the driving force behind tourism, the local council and the people are at the grassroots of Nigeria’s tourist ecosystem. It explains why at most festivals, be them Christian or Islamic, the urban regions are always deserted for the rural celebrations. Each local cultural society aims to preserve and enhance their unique cultural heritage, natural landscape, and biodiversity through partnership with all the stakeholders in the development of culture and tourism. Since tourism is related to entertainment, there has been a deliberate policy to harness and develop the talents of young Nigerians. Towards this end, the state governments’ entertainment and talent development departments offers logistic support for events and promotions. 44 • Nigeria-India• 2018