The President of the Ogori Descendant Union (ODU), Dr. Gabriel Aiso, has urged the Kogi State Government to harness the economic and cultural potential of the Ovia Osese Cultural Festival for revenue generation.
Dr. Aiso made the appeal on Monday in Lokoja while briefing journalists on activities lined up for the 2026 edition of the annual festival holding in the month of April in Ogori community, Ogori-Magongo Local Government Area of Kogi state.
He said the festival, if properly packaged and supported, could become a major tourism attraction capable of boosting the state’s internally generated revenue.
According to him, Ovia Osese has the capacity to place Kogi State prominently on the global cultural tourism map, noting that the festival remains the only cultural event in the state recognized by UNESCO, underscoring its international significance.
He explained that with adequate government backing, the festival could be transformed into a major economic asset for both the state and the host community.
While citing past experiences, Dr. Aiso recalled that a telecommunications company once sponsored the festival and conducted a revenue analysis.
He revealed that findings from the analysis showed that revenue generated during the festival was three times higher than that of the Argungu Fishing Festival, stressing that stronger collaboration between the state and local governments would further enhance the festival’s economic impact.
Dr. Aiso announced that the 2026 Ovia Osese Festival is scheduled to hold from April 12 to April 18, with the grand finale on April 18 adding that the event is expected to attract dignitaries, tourists and culture enthusiasts from across Nigeria and beyond.
Describing the festival as a symbol of identity, he said it reflects the values, traditions and history of the Ogori people.
He noted that the 2026 theme focuses on promoting the authentic heritage and cultural pride of the Ogori Kingdom.
On funding, he disclosed that the Ogori Culture Renaissance Committee has proposed a budget of ₦100 million for the event.
He explained that 40 per cent of the budget will be used for the festival, while 60 per cent will go into community development projects.
Dr. Aiso further emphasized that beyond cultural displays, the festival promotes social values, particularly the empowerment of the girl child, which he described as a core aspect of Ogori culture.
