Topic: ASONIS Officials Discuss the Vision and Impact of the Ogbomoso Cradles Carnival Based on Statements from His Imperial Majesty, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, Orumogege III, Soun of Ogbomosho land
NEWSMAN: “Good afternoon, ASONIS President and Secretary General. Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, the Soun of Ogbomosoland, has shared inspiring words about the upcoming Ogbomoso Cradles Carnival and its potential impact on the community and the nation. How do you see this event influencing students and youth, particularly in terms of cultural engagement and entrepreneurship?”
SECRETARY GENERAL, COMRADE AMB MEGBOWON OLUSOLA EZEKIEL: “Thank you. His Majesty’s vision for the carnival is both progressive and inspiring. The Cradles Carnival will give young people an incredible opportunity to immerse themselves in their heritage, sparking not only a deep cultural appreciation but also practical entrepreneurial insights. Events like this have immense potential, and we’ve seen similar examples across the globe—look at the Carnival in Rio de Janeiro in South America. It’s a cultural festival that draws millions, providing job opportunities, encouraging local creativity, and generating revenue for Brazil.
Another notable example is the Tinapa Resort in Calabar, Cross River State, which was established to showcase Nigerian culture and boost tourism. Like Tinapa, the Cradles Carnival could transform Ogbomoso into a vibrant center of cultural tourism, allowing our youth to learn invaluable skills while directly participating in the event. This carnival can turn our cultural pride into economic opportunities for our youth.”
PRESIDENT, COMRADE TAIWO OLAYINKA TEMITOPE: “I completely agree, and adding to that, if you consider the Te Matatini Festival in New Zealand—a large-scale Maori cultural event—it’s an excellent example of how traditional celebrations can unite people while preserving heritage and attracting international attention. The Soun’s vision is for this festival to be more than an event; it’s to make Ogbomoso an epicenter of Nigerian culture and to bring youth into active roles in cultural and economic development. The Cradles Carnival has the potential to do what Te Matatini has done for the Maori people in Oceania. It preserves tradition and creates a sense of pride while also inviting global tourists who contribute to local economies.”
NEWSMAN: “Oba Olaoye has also highlighted the carnival’s potential for economic growth in Ogbomoso and beyond. How do you see this influencing the local economy, particularly in terms of revenue generation and job creation?”
SECRETARY GENERAL, COMRADE AMB MEGBOWON OLUSOLA EZEKIEL: “The Soun’s vision to link culture with economic growth is spot-on. Events like the Diwali Festival in India are a perfect example. Diwali has become a major tourism attraction that boosts local economies, drives sales in local businesses, and supports a large number of artisans and entrepreneurs. Here in Ogbomoso, the Cradles Carnival can have a similar effect. When you attract visitors, you’re boosting demand across many sectors—hospitality, crafts, transportation, and food. This festival will open the door for countless local entrepreneurs to gain income and experience, and it strengthens the city’s economic base, just like what we see with Diwali in India.
Moreover, the Tinapa Resort serves as a local example of how cultural investments can create jobs and stimulate economic growth, reinforcing the need for sustainable tourism strategies that can elevate Ogbomoso as a destination.”
PRESIDENT, COMRADE TAIWO OLAYINKA TEMITOPE: “Exactly. And if we look further east, Japan’s Nebuta Matsuri Festival is another example of how cultural events can fuel an entire city’s economy, driving tourism and creating jobs. For Ogbomoso, the Cradles Carnival is a long-term investment. The economic impact goes beyond the festival days; it’s a foundation for consistent growth. The international examples we’re discussing, including Tinapa, show that cultural festivals can become a vital part of a city’s economic identity, bringing sustainable income and creating jobs for people who are passionate about their heritage. With the Federal Ministry of Tourism’s support, the Cradles Carnival will be a benchmark in how culture and economy intersect for development.”
NEWSMAN: “Thank you both. In addition to these economic benefits, how do you believe the event will enhance social cohesion and promote cultural heritage preservation?”
SECRETARY GENERAL, COMRADE AMB MEGBOWON OLUSOLA EZEKIEL: “This carnival is set to unify our communities by highlighting shared values and culture, just as Brazil’s Carnival unites people across the country, transcending social and economic boundaries. Similarly, our event in Ogbomoso will provide a communal space where people can celebrate their identity and history, fostering pride and unity. The Soun’s intention is to make this an annual anchor for our cultural preservation, where each performance, art display, and ritual strengthens our connection to our roots and shows the world what Nigerian culture truly embodies.”
PRESIDENT, COMRADE TAIWO OLAYINKA TEMITOPE: “True, the social impact is just as vital as the economic. When you have people gathering to celebrate and learn about their culture, it strengthens bonds and increases respect for tradition, similar to how the Thaipusam Festival in Malaysia fosters unity among different communities while preserving its cultural and spiritual heritage. For Ogbomoso, this carnival not only preserves our customs but establishes our cultural identity on a global stage, making Ogbomoso a model for cultural unity in Southwest Nigeria and beyond. This level of social cohesion can only come from a deep respect for shared heritage, something the Cradles Carnival will nurture.”
NEWSMAN: “Lastly, what message would you give to students and youth across Nigeria about participating in the Ogbomoso Cradles Carnival?”
SECRETARY GENERAL, COMRADE AMB MEGBOWON OLUSOLA EZEKIEL: “I encourage every young person to take advantage of this event. The Cradles Carnival is more than just a festival; it’s a chance to broaden your perspective and to develop entrepreneurial and leadership skills. Festivals like this have uplifted communities worldwide, from Rio to Tinapa, and we want our youth to gain from the experience, whether they are showcasing talents, learning cultural management, or understanding event logistics. By participating, youth will be contributing to something historic while building their own skillsets for the future.”
PRESIDENT, COMRADE TAIWO OLAYINKA TEMITOPE: “Exactly, and I urge all students to see this as a practical learning ground. Just as these global festivals have created economic and cultural hubs, the Cradles Carnival offers an environment where young minds can absorb and apply business techniques, network, and engage with mentors. This event is a living classroom in cultural pride and economic development. As we look forward to December, let’s come together to make Ogbomoso a cultural and economic beacon, just as so many countries have done through similar events.”
Closing Remark:
ASONIS stands united with His Imperial Majesty, the Soun of Ogbomosoland, in welcoming everyone, particularly students and young professionals, to attend and participate in the Ogbomoso Cradles Carnival. This festival will be a monumental event for cultural exchange and economic empowerment, aligning with successful international models in South America, Oceania, and Asia. Let’s make this an unforgettable celebration of Nigerian heritage and a milestone for Ogbomoso’s future.
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