The Ogun State government, today, begins the 2017 edition of African Drums Festival. The show which is touted as an expanded version of the 2016 maiden edition, tagged, the Nigerian Drums Festival continues till Saturday, April 22, 2017.
The Ogun state government, had during the 2016 edition, unveiled the world’s tallest drum.
Speaking at a World Press Conference to unveil the official logo for this year’s festival on Tuesday, Governor Ibikunle Amosun, who was represented by his Deputy, Chief (Mrs.) Yetunde Onanuga, said over 20 African countries had indicated interest to participate during the festival.
This, he added, is in addition to the over 12 states of the federation that had confirmed their attendance.
The governor said that the festival, with the theme, “Reviving Our Culture in Drums,” would reveal the richness and depth of Ogun, Nigeria, and by extension, African culture, to the world.
Amosun, while emphasising the preservation of African cultural heritage, said “the 2017 African Drums Festival would afford us the opportunity to learn from our cultural values and diversity and promote African unity.”
Also speaking, Chairman of the 2017 African Drums Festival Local Organising Committee and Secretary to the State Government, Barr. Taiwo Adeoluwa, said the event would enhance the economic value of the citizens by showcasing talents and the cultural heritage.
In his welcome address, Ogun State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Barr. Muyiwa Oladipo said the festival would foster development, growth and unity, not only in Nigeria, but also in Africa.
