The traditional Orosun festival indigenous to the Idanre people has kicked off in Ondo State, South West, Nigeria.
It will run through June 15 to June 19, 2025.
This annual celebration honours Orosun, a wife of Olofin Aremitan, the founder of Idanre, and showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Idanre people, reports Daily Independent.
The festival features traditional dances, songs, and drumming, and is expected to attract tourists and observers from across the country.
Legend records that, Orosun’s life was cut short due to political intrigue, and the people of Idanre appeased her in exchange for fertility, peace, progress, and health.
Meanwhile, Chief Lawrence Akinboni has solicited the assistance of the state and federal governments as well as corporate bodies and individuals in projecting the Orosun Festival globally.
This, he believes, will boost Ondo State’s tourism potential and create new revenue streams.
“We urge the government and private sector to support us in promoting this festival, which showcases our rich cultural heritage and attracts tourists,” he said.
Corroborating Akinboni, Prince Mayowa Aroloye, a son of the late Owa of Idanre Kingdom, expressed his delight in the festival, saying, “The Orosun Festival is a great heritage among the people of Idanre and in the Yoruba Land. It is a celebration that showcases our rich history and traditions, and we are proud to share it with the world.”
He said Ondo State boasts of a rich cultural heritage, with the Orosun Festival being one of its most notable events, noting that the state’s diverse attractions include the Idanre Hills, Ebomi Lake Tourist Centre, Igbo Olodumare, and Igbokoda Waterfront. By promoting the Orosun Festival, Ondo State can capitalize on its cultural and natural attractions, driving economic growth and development.
“The Orosun Festival is a significant cultural event that showcases the rich heritage of the Idanre people. With government support, it has the potential to become a major tourist attraction, generating revenue and promoting economic growth in the state,” the stakeholders noted.
