Asa Day Festival: Stakeholders Advocate Culture as Economic Catalyst

Governments across all levels have been called upon to unlock the economic potential of Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage, emphasizing its capacity to drive economic growth, create jobs, and promote sustainable development.

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His Royal Majesty, Oba Joel Olaniyi Oyatoye, the Oloro of Oro Kingdom in Kwara State, North Central Nigeria, delivered this call to action during the 8th Asa Day Festival.

The event, held at the Blue Roof in Agidingbi, Ikeja, Lagos, was organized in partnership with Asa Day Worldwide International Canada and the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture. It centered on the theme, “Raising the Bar of Lagos Indigenous Cultural Heritage.”

Oyatoye, the founder and convener of Asa Day, highlighted the importance of promoting Yoruba culture and tradition while reviving its cultural assets, which are gradually being eroded by the effects of modern civilization.

He noted, however, that despite the influence of Western culture, there is a growing appreciation for the values of local traditions.

He said “We have to embrace our cultural assets, which are slowly being eroded by modernity. Yet, despite the Western encroachment, there is a growing appreciation for our traditions. It is time we channel our culture’s economic power for the benefit of all. I want to encourage our people to protect and promote our culture, do it right and stand right with it.”

Asa Day, which has been celebrated for years in Canada, made its way to Lagos, for the second time since its inception. This year’s gathering was an immersive showcase of Yoruba tradition, with performances, art, music, and dance that spoke to the heart of the culture.

The monarch explained that the choice of Lagos was no accident. “Lagos is a melting pot of cultures. But it’s also important to recognize the indigenous culture of the land, and that is what Asa Day celebrates. We want to raise the flag of Lagos’ indigenous heritage. “It is another scope of tourism where people can come from far and wide today, we have people from other neighbouring states and others that came all the way from China.”

He expressed gratitude to the state government for its approval and support in hosting this year’s edition of the festival. He also assured that the next edition would be even more elaborate, featuring a comprehensive exhibition of culture and traditions to further emphasize the importance of valuing our heritage.

 

Promoting Culture

A highlight of the festival was the presence of Fuji music maestro, Dr. Saheed Osupa, who served as one of the guest speakers. He commended the collaboration between the government and the traditional ruler, describing the initiative as a significant step toward preserving cultural heritage. “This is a wonderful initiative that will help preserve our culture for generations to come. Culture is a treasure, and we must do everything to keep it alive,” Osupa remarked.

 

Learning Culture

Yoruba Nollywood actor Saidi Balogun described Asa Day as more than a celebration—it was a platform to pass on vital cultural knowledge to younger generations. He encouraged parents to actively teach their children Yoruba culture and language, emphasizing that the effort to preserve heritage must begin at home.

“We need to start from home; charity begins at home, let’s teach our children who we are and where we come from. If we don’t, our culture may disappear,” Balogun said.

 

Passing It On to the Next Generation

Mrs. Lanre Hassan, popularly known as Iya Awero, another distinguished guest at the event, reinforced Balogun’s views. As an actor and cultural advocate, she emphasized the significance of preserving and passing down cultural knowledge to future generations.

“Our culture defines who we are. It is our duty to protect and pass it on to the next generation, we must all be part of this movement to preserve our traditions,” she said.

Several guests at the festival commended the monarch’s efforts to promote and elevate Yoruba culture, recognizing it as a powerful tool for economic growth and a means of connecting the next generation to their heritage and source of pride.

 

 

 

 

Oluchi Okwuego