The Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, has officially presented UNESCO’s certificate recognising the Sango Festival as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity to the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Abdulhakeem Owoade I.
The presentation took place during the grand finale of the 2025 World Sango Festival in Oyo State, marking a historic cultural milestone for Nigeria.
Musawa described the recognition as a major achievement under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, stressing that cultural heritage plays a vital role in sustainable development, tourism, and international diplomacy.
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“This is more than a festival; it is a legacy,” Musawa declared. “The Sango Festival’s inscription on UNESCO’s Representative List affirms Nigeria’s place on the global cultural stage. It is a win for Oyo Kingdom, the Yoruba nation, and the entire country.”
The Alaafin of Oyo thanked the federal government and pledged Oyo’s continued support in showcasing Nigeria’s culture globally.
“This honour reflects our shared dedication to preserving identity,” he said. “Oyo Kingdom stands ready to work with the government to sustain this cultural renaissance.”
The 2025 Sango Festival attracted dignitaries, tourists, and cultural enthusiasts from within and outside Nigeria, further cementing its status as a living expression of Yoruba history, spirituality, and resilience.
