The Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yoruba Land and Chief Promoter of Olokun Festival Foundation, Chief Gani Adams, has urged both the Federal and Lagos State governments to create policies that will make Badagry a global tourism destination.
Adams gave the advice during the 2025 edition of Olokun World Festival, held on Tuesday, at Kakanfo-Falola Beach, Badagry, Lagos State.
Chief Gani Adams, Are-Ona Kakanfo of Yoruba Land and Chief Promoter of Olokun Festival Foundation
According to him, Nigeria’s history has always been kind to the ancient town of Badagry as one of the foremost tourist destinations in the country with recent developments and activities.
“Everything is now in place for Badagry to take its pride of place as a global tourism destination.
“Consequently, both the Federal and state governments must support the realisation of this dream with policies that will improve infrastructural development of the ancient town.
“The only major challenge over the years, which is the poor state of the major road passing through the town, is now almost a thing of the past with the total overhaul and reconstruction of the Lagos-Badagry Expressway
almost completed,” he said.
He said that with the take-off of the Kakanfo-Falola Beach, efforts will vigorously begin to explore the tourism potential of Badagry.
Adams said: “Since we began celebrating the festival in Badagry, the ancient town has continued to witness tremendous developments through the spiritual blessings of Olokun and Olosa deities.
“For instance, the number of Obas and traditional rulers in Badagry was previously six or seven.
“That number has increased tremendously since we started celebrating Olokun Festival here in Badagry.
“No fewer than 25 prominent traditional rulers now exist in Badagry.
“Badagry has turned out to be an oil-producing area, with the discovery of crude oil in five locations across the ancient town.
“This place has also become a suitable location for big festivals, just as the state government is driving many local and foreign investments here.”
On the festival, Adams said the Olokun Festival began 23 years ago with the first edition held at the Alpha Beach in Lagos.
“Since then, it has evolved and grown bigger every passing year.
“Fittingly, the festival has now metamorphosed to become the Olokun World Festival, a global cultural fiesta with global attraction.
“In addition, the festival has now moved from its initial location – the Suntan Beach to its permanent site at the Kakanfo-Falola Beach,” he said.
Adams commended the Akran of Badagry, De-Wheno Aholu Toyi 1 for supporting them in diverse ways since they began cultural evangelism journey, and organising the Olokun Festival in the town.
“I appreciate all other royal fathers present here for finding time to be part of this historic gathering.
“Your presence is a reflection of how far we have gone in promoting the cultural identity of the Yoruba race within and outside the shores of our country,” he said.
Traditional rulers from Lagos and Ogun states as well as Republic of Bénin graced the ceremony.
NAN
