Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has officially received the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Certificate recognizing the historic Sango Festival as one of the world’s treasured cultural legacies.
The certificate was presented earlier by the Minister of Art, Culture and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, during the 2025 World Sango Festival held in Oyo town, the cradle of the Yoruba civilization. The event drew thousands of traditional worshippers, cultural enthusiasts, and international delegates who witnessed the colorful displays of Yoruba heritage.
Governor Makinde, while receiving the certificate, commended the relentless efforts of the Oyo State cultural team, traditional institutions, and custodians of Yoruba history whose contributions, he said, were instrumental in securing this global recognition. He described the UNESCO certification as “a victory for Yoruba identity, African culture, and a major boost for cultural tourism in Nigeria.”
He added that the recognition would open new opportunities for the state in the areas of tourism, investment, and global partnerships, assuring that his administration would continue to preserve and promote indigenous heritage.
The Sango Festival, celebrated annually in honor of Sango, the revered Yoruba deity of thunder and lightning, has long been a symbol of unity, spirituality, and cultural pride among the Yoruba people. With UNESCO’s endorsement, it now joins other globally recognized African traditions celebrated for their cultural significance and resilience against extinction.
Stakeholders believe that this milestone will not only enhance Oyo State’s profile as a cultural hub but also attract global tourism and strengthen Nigeria’s soft power on the international stage.
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