The Oyo State government has solicited the support and collaboration of the state-owned Pacesetter Transport Services for a successful hosting of the 2026 World Egungun Festival.
The state Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatubosun, asked for the support when he led the management team of the ministry to the Pacesetter Transport Services, on Monday.
The commissioner, alongside the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Mr. Rotimi Babalola, were on a courtesy visit to the chairman of PTS, Hon. (Dr.) Salami Oladeji Ibraheem (Dikko).
Olatubosun appreciated the consistent support of the transport company towards the activities of the ministry, particularly its contributions to the successful hosting of the second edition of the World Egungun Festival, held in 2025.
He also commended Governor ‘Seyi Makinde for providing a platform to showcase the richness of Yoruba culture to the global community, despite financial constraints.
Olatubosun further acknowledged the contributions of partners and stakeholders, noting that the success of the World Egungun Festival was largely due to collaborative efforts.
He added that if the festival gains recognition from UNESCO, it will become the first Ibadan-based festival to achieve such a feat in the history of Oyo State.
Speaking on the purpose of the visit, Olatubosun emphasised the need to sustain and improve on the standard already set, in order to avoid any decline in subsequent editions.
He disclosed that about eight countries, including Gabon and Sierra Leone, and over 15 foreign media organisations, in addition to local media, have indicated interest in participating in the 2026 World Egungun Festival.
The commissioner therefore solicited increased support from Pacesetter Transport Services, especially in the area of transportation logistics for invited guests and masquerades.
He also expressed willingness to accommodate branding opportunities for the company during the festival.
Also speaking, Acting General Manager of the Oyo State Council for Arts and Culture, Mr. Sikiru Adekunle Agboola, stressed the importance of preserving indigenous culture, warning that neglect could lead to a situation where original custodians appear disconnected from their traditions.
He referenced remarks about how countries like El Salvador actively promote Yoruba culture and traditions in their public spaces.
In his response, chairman, of Pacesetter Transport Services, Dr Ibraheem (Dikko), congratulated the ministry’s management team and commended their efforts in promoting the policies and programmes of the present administration through cultural initiatives.
He described the work of the ministry as commendable, especially in the face of limited resources.
He pledged his organisation’s support for the 2026 World Egungun Festival and assured that Pacesetter Transport Services would align with the ministry to ensure a successful outing.
