LAGOS JOINS RESIDENTS TO CELEBRATE AGASEPO EHEPO HUNDETON FESTIVAL IN BADAGRY
… As Oba Pleads for Support
The Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture team led by the Chief Executive Officer, Lagos State Council for Arts and Culture, Mr. Idowu Johnson, recently joined residents of Badagry to celebrate the Hundeton Festival in Ajara Kingdom of Badagry Lagos State.
Mr. Johnson noted that the Hundenton festival has become a yearly tradition that is gaining momentum every year and turning Badagry into the Mecca of tourism in the State. He commended the organizers for their consistency, stressing that if they do not stop celebrating the festival, it will continue to get bigger and better yearly.
Speaking on the Hundeton Festival, His Royal Majesty Agano Toniyon 1 (The Aholu of Ajara Agamathen Kingdom), stated that the festival aims to promote the town’s cultural heritage and attract tourists to the area
According to His Royal Majesty, the festival which usually features a series of traditional rituals, dance performances and feasting, if well branded will drive tourists into Badagry, adding that it is expedient that the inheritance in terms of culture and traditions of the people be preserved for future generations.
Speaking further the Oba said the festival will stimulate the local economy by attracting tourists, generating revenue for local businesses as well as showcasing the cultural heritage, traditions and talents of the region, thereby contributing to the preservation and promotion of cultural diversity in the kingdom.
He appreciated the State Government, especially the Governor for his support towards the festival because it has given residents of his kingdom a sense of pride and accomplishment as they saw their community being celebrated and appreciated by others.
The traditional ruler also pleaded with the State Government to support the festival like others that are being celebrated in the State, noting that the Hundenton festival has a vital role in preserving the town’s cultural heritage and promoting tourism in the area. It also provides an opportunity for the residents to celebrate their traditions and share them with visitors.
It is worth emphasising that Badagry has a rich history of cultural and traditional festivals that are celebrated annually. These festivals are an important part of the town’s cultural heritage and serve as a way to celebrate and preserve its traditions.