By Erewunmi Peace

The Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Gani Adams, and renowned Ifa priest, Yemi Elebuibon, have called on the Osun State Government to promote the Obatala Grove in Ifon-Osun as a major cultural and heritage tourism site.

The appeal was made during activities surrounding the Obatala Festival held in Ifon-Orolu area of Osun State.

The cultural leaders stressed the importance of preserving Yoruba heritage and promoting historical sites capable of attracting both local and international tourists.

According to them, the Obatala Grove possesses significant cultural and spiritual value and has the potential to become a major tourism destination if properly developed and promoted.

They also noted that promoting such heritage sites could boost cultural education, tourism revenue, and global recognition of Yoruba traditions.

The event attracted traditional leaders, cultural enthusiasts, and members of the Yoruba socio-cultural community who emphasized the need to preserve indigenous history and identity.

Stakeholders at the gathering further urged government authorities to invest in infrastructure and cultural promotion around heritage sites across the state.

The Obatala Festival forms part of ongoing efforts by cultural organizations to celebrate and preserve Yoruba customs and traditional institutions.