The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has expressed strong confidence in the ability of Olayiwola Awakan, widely known as Ola Awakan, to reshape Nigeria’s tourism landscape.
The monarch’s remark follows Awakan’s appointment in September as the Director-General of the Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation, a move the Ooni described as both visionary and timely for the country’s cultural revival.
In a statement released by his Director of Media and Public Affairs, Moses Olafare, the Ooni said the appointment represents the government’s recognition of youthful brilliance and innovation as key to Nigeria’s transformation. He described Awakan as a dynamic Nigerian youth with a deep understanding of culture, tourism, and storytelling, whose work has long reflected an unwavering commitment to promoting the nation’s heritage.
The monarch noted that Awakan’s participation in several cultural festivals, including the Osun-Osogbo Festival, Olojo Festival, and Aje Festival, underscores his hands-on experience in celebrating Nigeria’s traditions and showcasing their economic and spiritual significance.
Oba Ogunwusi urged the new DG to use his position to translate his passion into actionable policies that can elevate Nigeria’s tourism profile on the global stage. He encouraged him to focus on promoting festivals and heritage sites, creating jobs for young people, and positioning cultural tourism as a major contributor to the nation’s economy.
According to the Ooni, Nigerians and the global community are watching with high expectations, hopeful that Awakan’s leadership will transform local festivals into world-class attractions that generate pride, unity, and prosperity.
He also commended President Bola Tinubu for entrusting such an important role to a visionary young Nigerian, noting that the decision reflects the administration’s commitment to strengthening the creative economy and building a future where culture and tourism play central roles in national development.
