The Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams, has called on traditional rulers and state governments across the South-West to prioritize the promotion and preservation of Yoruba culture and heritage.

Speaking at the 2025 Okota Festival held in Arigidi-Akoko, Ondo State, Adams warned that any community or people who abandon their roots do so at their own risk.

“There is a global difference between religion, culture, and tradition,” he said.

“Any race or people who ignore their heritage do so at their own peril. Our cultural identity must be preserved if we want to move forward.”

The event, organized by the Olokun Festival Foundation, brought together various traditional rulers and cultural enthusiasts. Adams used the opportunity to urge the Ondo State Government to upgrade the Okota Festival to a nationally recognized cultural event. He believes this would help transform the Okota River site into a global tourist destination, similar to the Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove.

“Yorubaland is blessed with many heritage and tourist sites that can boost the economy of local communities if they are well developed,” he added.

Adams also appealed to traditional rulers in Akoko land to intensify efforts in celebrating their deities and ancestral traditions.

“As a proud son of Akoko and the Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, I am ready to support any traditional ruler who is committed to preserving and promoting our cultural values,” he assured.

Other royal figures present at the festival echoed his sentiments, including the Owa of Ogbagi, Oba Victor Adetona, and the Zaki of Arigidi-Akoko, Oba Yisa Olanipekun, who also urged the government to support cultural festivals as a way of preserving history and boosting tourism.

The message from the festival was clear: Culture is not just tradition — it’s identity, pride, and a tool for growth.