The ancient city of Oyo came alive at the weekend with colour, chants and the fiery spirit of Sango as the 2025 World Sango Festival climaxed in a historic ceremony — the official presentation of the UNESCO World Heritage Certificate to the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, Elewu Etu I.
The Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, led the symbolic handover on behalf of the Federal Government, describing the recognition as a milestone in Nigeria’s cultural diplomacy.
Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Minister, Dr. Nneka Ikem Anibeze, in a statement on Sunday quoted Musawa as saying that : “We celebrate not just a festival, but a legacy. With this UNESCO inscription, Sango’s heritage now stands as a global treasure — one that connects the Yoruba nation to humanity at large.”
The Alaafin of Oyo, visibly moved by the honour, described the development as a triumph for Yoruba identity.
He expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu’s administration for supporting the push that secured the festival’s place on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
The World Sango Festival, renowned for its colourful procession of drummers, masquerades, fire-spitting rituals and musical performances in honour of Sango, the Yoruba god of thunder, attracted dignitaries, tourists and cultural enthusiasts from within and outside Nigeria.
Observers note that UNESCO’s recognition will not only help preserve the traditions of the Oyo people but also strengthen the festival’s potential as a hub for tourism, youth empowerment and cultural pride. For Oyo, the flames of Sango now burn brighter than ever — crackling on the world stage.
