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… Begins Saturday, November 23, and Concludes Sunday, December 1, 2024
BY ABU-SATAR HAMED
ILARO-YEWA, OGUN STATE, NIGERIA – The people of Ilaro, led by His Royal Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Kehinde Gbadewole Olugbenle, MFR, the Olu of Ilaro and Paramount Ruler of Yewaland, are eagerly preparing for the 2024 Oronna Ilaro Festival.
This year’s festival will honour the esteemed presence of Prince Dapo Abiodun, CON, the Executive Governor of Ogun State, as the Distinguished Special Guest of Honour and Dr. Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy, will serve as the esteemed Chairman of the event.
This year’s festival, aptly themed: “Festival of Transformation and Development,” reflects a commitment to both cultural heritage and community progress.
According to a press statement by the Oronna Festival Planning Committee, chaired by Otunba (Pharm.) ‘Lekan Musa Asuni, the festival will take place from Saturday, November 23, to Sunday, December 1, 2024.
This extended celebration promises to merge Ilaro’s deep-rooted traditions with its aspirations for transformation and unity.
The 2024 Oronna Ilaro Festival will offer a variety of events curated to appeal to all segments of the community. These include:
Saturday, November 23, 2024:
- Unveiling of the Festival Mascot: This symbolic launch at the Private Palace of Oba (Dr.) Kehinde Gbadewole Olugbenle will signal the official commencement of the festival.
- Roadshow and Awareness Campaign: A lively procession will make its way across Ilaro Township, ending with a celebratory “Bolojo Night.”
Monday, November 25, 2024:
- Traditional Visits and Prayers: Honouring Ilaro’s sacred sites, the community will pay tribute to the Oronna, Itolu, and Ita-Osi shrines.
Tuesday, November 26, 2024:
- 5km Community Race: A health-focused event that promotes fitness and wellness within the community.
- Medical Outreach: Free healthcare services offered at Oronna Hall in Ilaro, providing essential support to residents.
- Igununko Masquerade Festival: A colorful showcase of traditional masquerade culture, reflecting the community’s deep-rooted heritage.
- Football Finals: A spirited local competition highlighting the athletic talents of Ilaro’s youth.
Wednesday, November 27, 2024:
- Cultural Performances: Traditional performances, including Gelede/Egungun presentations, will bring Ilaro’s vibrant cultural heritage to life.
Children’s Day Celebration: A dedicated day for children, filled with engaging activities and learning opportunities.
- Youth Summit: A forum encouraging dialogue and engagement among the youth, fostering community leadership.
Thursday, November 28, 2024:
- Onigba Aje Procession: A tribute to commerce, celebrating the industrious spirit of Ilaro through a lively procession.
- Local Cuisine Cooking Competition: A contest spotlighting Ilaro’s unique culinary traditions and flavors.
- Poosu Night: An evening of music, dance, and cultural entertainment that embodies Ilaro’s festive spirit.
Friday, November 29, 2024:
- Jumat Thanksgiving: A Friday prayer service at the Ilaro Central Mosque, bringing the community together in gratitude.
- Prince & Princess Night: A special event held at the Private Palace of His Royal Majesty, adding a touch of regal celebration.
- Sisi Ilaro Beauty Pageant: Celebrating the beauty and elegance of Ilaro’s women, a highlight of the festival’s community celebrations.
Saturday, November 30, 2024:
- Homage to His Royal Majesty: Families, clubs, and associations gather to pay their respects to the Paramount Ruler.
- Grand Finale and Reception: The week’s events will culminate in an elegant grand finale, welcoming dignitaries from various sectors. It will also feature inspiring speeches, vibrant cultural performances, and a reception that brings together diverse leaders and guests for a memorable celebration.
Sunday, December 1, 2024:
- Thanksgiving Service: A closing service of gratitude to be held at the Cathedral Church of Christ, Ilaro-Yewa, honouring the festival’s theme of unity and growth.
*Dr. Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy.
The Oronna Ilaro Festival Planning Committee however extended a heartfelt invitation to all sons and daughters of Ilaro, as well as friends and well-wishers of the community, to participate in this week-long celebration of culture and community, adding that this year’s festival promises a unique blend of traditional pride and a shared vision for Ilaro’s future.
“We look forward to welcoming everyone to this year’s Oronna Ilaro Festival,” the release stated, emphasizing that it will be “a week of festivities, transformation, and unity”, the statement concluded.
