pannigeriannews 
By Isaiah Adewole
The Ogbomoso Cradles Carnival represents more than a cultural celebration, it is a strategic calculation to boost local economic growth, to strengthen community engagement in Nigeria and the diaspora, and reposition Ogbomoso as a viable cultural-tourism destination.
Taking insights from Osun-Osogbo festival in Osogbo and Ojude Oba Festival in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State, these cultural events are not just treated as mere festivities; they are recognised as temporary economic drivers. Events like this generate millions in revenue through tourism, hospitality, merchandising, transportation, and creative industries; more also, talent hunting.
In recent years, these festivals have proven to foster unity among every Nigerians, and also drive economic growth to the State.
As the chief architect of the carnival and custodian of Ogbomoso’s heritage, the Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye (Orumogege III) has emphasised that the Cradles Carnival is a strategic initiative tied to his 25-year development agenda for Ogbomoso. He describes it as a way to unite the people, showcase cultural heritage, and advance the economy, rather than just a social gathering. Also, Oyo State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Wasiu Olatubosun, also described the Cradles Carnival as a groundbreaking initiative that would drive growth, rapid development, and elevate Ogbomosoland onto the global map of culture and tourism.
In connection with the larger cultural and economic outlook of the carnival, the 2025 Chairman of the Organising Committee, Hon. Segun Odebunmi Bunvic, said that one of the successes of the maiden event was that it was able to attract more than 10,000 participants, including diaspora indigenes, got official recognition on both the calendar of events of Oyo State and at the Federal levels, got corporate sponsorship, and other long-term benefits which included the establishment of the Nigerian Academy for Cultural Studies (NACUS) in Ogbomoso.
Following the success of the maiden Ogbomoso Cradles Carnival in 2024, this year’s edition promises a more exciting events encompassing various aspects of our cultural and modern tradition like carnival cycling, traditional hunters’ display, sports competition, Ọdún Ọ̀lẹ̀, installation of honorary chieftaincy, Egúngún performance, and traditional homage paying to Kábíyèsí, among others.
On the heels of last year’s experiences, the carnival can also consider a deliberate fostering of inclusivity of persons with disabilities, including the continuation of activities such as the Visually Impaired Football Match, as a way of encouraging social inclusivity.
By learning from advanced climes, reflecting on previous year experiences, the Ogbomoso Cradles Carnival holds immense promise. With culture, economic explansion and unity at its core, it will not only celebrate Ogbomoso’s past but confidently project its future.
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