The Honourable Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Oluwasesan Fagbayi, has reiterated the current administration’s drive towards the preservation of African culture and heritage, describing them as agents of economic development.

The Commissioner made the statement after receiving an award for, outstanding contributions to Cultural Promotion and Tourism Development in Ogun State by the AJE Onire Egba Global Initiative, at the 2026 Odun Aje Onire Egba in Abeokuta.

Hon. Fagbayi hinted that there were benefits inherent in African culture and traditions, which could enhance tourism that would drive human traffic to the State, urging the populace to utilise culture as a means to boost productive economic advancement.

According to him, “the Aje Festival is an important festival to humanity, it is believed that nobody can survive without Aje, which is known as the spirit of wealth, prosperity and market profitability,”

Speaking on the recognition award, Hon. Fagbayi expressed gratitude to the organisers, describing the award as a reflection of the collective efforts of stakeholders towards cultural and tourism development.

While making her remarks, the Iyaloja of Asero Market, Mrs. kemi Oloyede, commended the present administration for creating equal platforms for religious groups to operate in the State, as well as appreciating government’s support for  identifying with them.

The events featured empowerment for Artisans, market men and women across the six local government areas in the Egba division.