ROYAL HEADS UNVEIL 2019 ASA FESTIVAL LOGO, COMMEND IKORODU DIVISION REBIRTH FOUNDATION, AS NOVEMBER 2 PICKS FOR THIS YEAR'S CELEBRATION. It's a Celebration of Our Identity in Ikorodu Division, Hon SOB Agunbiade reveals.

The Ikorodu Division Rebirth Foundation, IREP, has revealed that their aim is to continue to reawake the hidden treasure in indigenous communities and the originality of the culture of the people of Ikorodu Division. They revealed not to renege in engaging and giving expression to the culture and heritage of the people and set visitors mind towards appreciating our common purpose.

 

Disclosing this at the unveiling of 2019 ASA Festival Logo, held on Friday at Ayangburen Palace, Ikorodu, in the presence of Ikorodu Divisional Chieftancy Committee, Chaired by HRM Oba Kabir Adewale Shotobi. The Majority Leader, Lagos State House of Assembly and Convener of IREP Foundation, Hon SOB Agunbiade, eloquently alluded to the belief that to make appreciative progress as people in Ikorodu Division, our culture and tradition remains significant and as such must be cherished.

 

Agunbiade declared that "in celebrating the rich culture and tradition of the people of Ikorodu and to further strengthens peace and cultural development of the Division, the IREP has taking initiative of making the ASA festival a model of propagating affinity for all’.

 

He said that last year, “the festival was not celebrated because of elections, but this year, IREP promised to organize a ground breaking ASA festival for all the daughters and sons of Ikorodu Division.” He said this year's ASA festival will not only serve as a valid point for the people of Ikorodu, but will also be instrumental in molding the Division and making it a vocal point for tourist attraction in Lagos State.

 

‘’I’m without doubt that this year's ASA festival, which has been scheduled to hold on 2nd of November, will grow to generate meaningful economy and have a great impact in the economy of the people of Ikorodu Division. This festival promises to create employment and improve the life style of the residents of this Division’’. As regard to these, he said members of IREP found it worthy to inform the traditional rulers and other stakeholders in Ikorodu Division.

 

Speaking further, Agunbiade stated that IREP is committed to the preservation, propagation and promotion of ASA, adding that the clear promotion of indigenous culture have been demonstrated with the inclusion of ASA festival in the State’s calendar of tourism event. "Our intention as a Foundation is to use this festival to raise the standard of and make it one of the most celebrated festival alongside other important festivals being celebrated across the world", he added.

 

Delivering his remarks on behalf of Royal Heads and other High Chiefs in attendance, His Royal Majesty, the Ayangburen of Ikorodu, Oba Kabir Adewale Shotobi in amazement described the festival as a turning point in the history of the ancient Kingdoms of Ikorodu Division, stating that it will continue to be a reference point in Lagos State and Nigeria in general.

 

While enthusiastically highlighting the significance of ASA in the Division, His Royal Majesty revealed that aside the entertainment frenzy, ASA is a symbol of authority as its relevance in the community peace and progress is immemorial. ‘’We are indebted to the preservation and promotion of the tradition and heritage of this invaluable festival to give value and meaning to our existence, provide the coming generation the needed knowledge and deepen the voice of Africa in the global tourism community’’.

 

He further applauded Hon SOB Agunbiade for his contributions towards a sustainable cultural heritage. The monarch congratulated him on the success so far, stating that we must church our culture.

 

Immediately after the unveiling of this year's ASA festival Logo by the six Royal Heads from Ikorodu Division, His Royal Majesty, Oba (Barr.) AbdulSemiu Orimadegun Kasali, Adeboruwa of Igbogbo, said to MegaXpression Community Magazine that their resolve as traditional leaders is to consolidate the desire of the government in proving Lagos State as the hub of tourism is a task for all and sundry.

 

"Our drive to this festival include; tourism development, preservation and promotion of culture, inspiring talent discovery, promotion of economic potentials and trade exchange’’, he said.

 

Also responding to MegaXpression, one of the IREP members, Mr Kunle Adelabu ascribed ASA festival as an expression and appreciation of human purpose in Ikorodu Division. "We are here today to inform our Royal fathers that we're ready to celebrate culture, to celebrate tradition and to celebrate the people of Ikorodu Division for staying true to their heritage because the only link between the people and their future is their heritage, he said.

 

His Royal Majesties, Oba Mudashiru Ajibade Agoro, Ranodu of Imota, Oba Dr. AbdulAkeem Adeoriyomi Oyebo, Obateru of Egbin royal kingdom, Oba Richard Ogunsanya, Olubeshe of Ibeshe, Oba Aremu Sotonwa, Sekumade of Ipakodo, High Chief Musediq, Regent of Ijede, High Chief Tajudeen Onasanya, Odofin of Igbogbo, amongst other High Chiefs were also in attendance.

 

DAMILOLA SEIDU
Reporting for MegaXpression Community Magazine,
The Source of GENUINE Information.