The Kogi State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Acharu Okpanachi, has lauded the Ogori Community for their unwavering commitment to the annual celebration of the Ovia Osese Festival, which continues to grow in significance and vibrancy each year.
This year’s Ovia Osese Festival, held at the Ogori Civic Center, showcased a rich tapestry of cultural displays that attracted a diverse audience from both local and international communities.
Hon. Acharu Okpanachi expressed her delight at the unity and enthusiasm displayed during the event. “Today is not merely a celebration; it is a tribute to our identity, values, and the sacred bonds that connect generations,” she stated. “The Ovia Osese Festival stands as one of the most historically significant and culturally valuable events in our beloved state. It honors young girls who have maintained their purity, exemplifying how our culture can foster values, character, and community strength.”
The festival serves as a rite of passage for young girls, guiding them into womanhood while instilling essential principles of self-respect, discipline, and morality. “The Ovia Osese Festival is a powerful reminder of our heritage and the importance of imparting these values to our youth,” Hon. Acharu emphasized.
In a spirit of celebration, Hon. Acharu extended her heartfelt congratulations to the maidens of Ogori. “To the proud daughters of Ogori, I commend you. You carry the torch of a rich tradition and serve as role models for future generations. Your dedication has earned you the admiration of your families, your communities, and indeed, the entire state,” she concluded.
The Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Acharu Okpanachi, commended the invaluable contributions of tradition bearers, including elders, women leaders, families, and cultural stakeholders, who tirelessly work to preserve and promote our heritage. She expressed her gratitude for their unwavering support, dedication, and guidance, which are essential for the continued flourishing of our culture. The Commissioner reaffirmed the Kogi State Government’s commitment to supporting cultural preservation across all communities, emphasizing that our cultural festivals serve not only as attractions for tourists but also as moral institutions that instill values of peace, respect, and development. She views culture as a vital component of our collective growth and, as a proud daughter of Kogi State, she stands in solidarity with the heritage that unites us.
Hon. Acharu highlighted that the Ovia Osese Festival transcends mere celebration; it embodies our unity, creativity, and customs. She noted that Kogi State is rich in talent and resilience, urging all citizens to actively promote culture, tourism, and economic growth. She expressed her appreciation for the culture-friendly leadership of His Excellency Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, the Governor of Kogi State, for his unwavering support in ensuring that our cultural identity shines brightly. Additionally, she congratulated the Ogori Community for their efforts in making Kogi State proud.
Dr. Gabriel Aiso, President of the Ogori Descendants Union (ODU), emphasized that the Ogori Ovia Osese Festival not only celebrates our unique customs and traditions but also serves as a vital platform for fostering unity, promoting tourism, and driving economic growth within the Local Government Area. He highlighted the festival’s diverse range of activities, which include traditional dances, music performances, and community engagement programs, all designed to strengthen community ties and showcase the rich cultural heritage of the Ogori people.
Elizabeth Ladi Samuel
Information Officer
Ministry of Culture and Tourism.
