As part of endeavors to boost traditional customs and heritage locations, the Lagos State Council for Arts and Culture (LSCAC) joined devotees and enthusiasts of culture to celebrate the annual Olokun festival for the year 2023.
Addressing the gathering, Mrs. Oloruntoyin Ganiat Atekoja, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, who represented the State Government at the event, emphasized that our native cultures define our identity and it is our responsibility to safeguard them to prevent their disappearance.
She pointed out that cultural events like the Olokun festival represent the ancient way of life of our forefathers, which brought them prosperity prior to the advent of Europeans and the subsequent modernization. “When we pay homage to Olokun, it ushers in good fortune, success, and longevity. This is what distinguished us with a unique culture before the Europeans arrived and trivialized our belief system,” Atekoja added.
The CEO of LSCAC, Mr. Idowu Johnson, emphasized the significance of digitization and increased involvement of youth in maintaining our indigenous cultures and heritage. He stressed the importance of educating the younger generation about the value of our native cultures and traditions.
He noted that when people lose their languages and other aspects of their native culture, their cultural identity becomes endangered. Johnson underlined, “Our culture and heritage define us. Without preserving our culture, we risk fading away as a community. The Lagos State Council for Arts and Culture is dedicated to promoting our indigenous culture.”
The Convener and Chief Host of the Festival, HSM (Dr.) Lara Fashola, revealed that the Olokun festival serves as an effective means of connecting with the Olokun deity, which subsequently brings abundant blessings and progress to the people of the State.
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