ISARA-REMO, OGUN STATE — The planning committee for the 57th edition of the AFOTAMODI Festival has been formally inaugurated by His Royal Majesty, Oba Peter Oluwole Ogunbayo (Otete III), the Odemo of Isara-Remo, with a charge to deliver a festival that will not only celebrate the town’s rich cultural heritage but also accelerate its socio-economic development.
Speaking during the inauguration ceremony, Chairman of the Planning Committee, Mr. Eric Ola-Animashaun Sonupe, expressed profound gratitude to the monarch for the confidence reposed in him and members of the committee.
“I am deeply honored and humbled by this responsibility. Our committee will serve with determination, openness and broad consultations to ensure that every stakeholder is carried along in the planning and execution of this year’s festival,” he said.
Sonupe described AFOTAMODI as more than a cultural festival, noting that it represents the history, traditions, values and aspirations of the people of Isara-Remo.
“The AFOTAMODI Festival is not about one individual. It is about Isara, its history, culture, traditions and, most importantly, its people. We shall welcome ideas, support and contributions from everyone who shares our vision of making this year’s edition a resounding success,” he stated.
The committee chairman also acknowledged the efforts of previous festival organizers, praising their sacrifices and commitment in sustaining the festival over the years.
One of the major highlights of the event was the announcement of a ₦500 million fundraising target to finance various developmental and festival-related projects. According to Sonupe, part of the funds will be used to renovate and modernize the Odemo’s Palace into a befitting royal edifice equipped with modern facilities that will support the traditional institution in carrying out its responsibilities effectively.
He further revealed plans to leverage the festival as a platform for attracting investors and showcasing the economic potential of Isara-Remo.
“We want to use AFOTAMODI to showcase the natural and human resources of our town. Isara is open and ready for business. We believe this festival will create opportunities to attract investments, stimulate economic activities and create jobs for our growing youth population,” he said.
The chairman outlined a wide range of activities lined up for the festival, including musical performances by renowned artistes, sports competitions, educational programmes, cultural displays, pageantry, arts and crafts exhibitions, fashion parades, free medical outreach programmes, religious lectures and community engagement initiatives.
On security, Sonupe assured residents and visitors that comprehensive arrangements had been put in place to guarantee safety throughout the festival period.
“We shall work closely with the police, military, Amotekun Corps, local vigilantes and other security agencies to ensure a peaceful and secure atmosphere before, during and after the celebrations,” he added.
In his remarks, the Odemo of Isara-Remo, Oba Peter Oluwole Ogunbayo, assured residents of his commitment to transforming the town through strategic development initiatives aimed at improving infrastructure, education, healthcare, youth empowerment and economic growth.
The monarch called on all sons and daughters of Isara, both at home and in the diaspora, to support the committee and contribute meaningfully to the advancement of the town.
“Development is a collective responsibility. Together, we shall build a stronger, safer and more prosperous Isara. This administration remains committed to creating an environment where opportunities abound and where our people can thrive,” the royal father said.
The inauguration of the committee marks the official commencement of activities leading to the 57th AFOTAMODI Festival, an annual cultural celebration that promotes the heritage, unity and development of Isara-Remo.
