…Aiyedatiwa hails cultural revival, youth creativity
By Duchess Ifeoluwa
After nine years of absence, the ancient town of Idanre came alive on Tuesday night as the Mare Festival made a colourful return, drawing thousands of residents and visitors for the grand finale of the 2025 edition.
Music, dance and vibrant cultural displays filled the air as Ondo State Governor, Dr Lucky Aiyedatiwa, stood before an electrified crowd, witnessing what many described as the rebirth of a festival once feared lost to history.
Addressing the gathering, Governor Aiyedatiwa described the revival of the Mare Festival as a powerful symbol of cultural rebirth and resilience, stressing that despite the pressures of globalisation, Ondo State must continue to preserve and celebrate its indigenous heritage.
He noted that the state is endowed with numerous festivals across its communities, each reflecting unique histories, values and identities, and emphasised that culture remains one of the strongest unifying forces among the people.
The governor expressed particular delight at performances that creatively blended tradition with modern expression, praising young artistes who fused rap and contemporary rhythms with the Idanre language.
According to him, the performances demonstrated that culture can evolve and remain relevant without losing its essence.
He added that the festival had provided an important platform for youths to showcase their talents, expressing optimism that several promising talents were discovered during the four-day celebration, which also featured a marathon and other entertainment activities aimed at promoting social interaction and well-being.
Commending the conduct of the crowd, Governor Aiyedatiwa applauded the maturity displayed by attendees, noting that older youths protected rather than intimidated younger participants.
He described the atmosphere as orderly, disciplined and exemplary.
Impressed by the turnout and level of organisation, the governor promised that the Mare Festival would be bigger and more colourful in the coming year, assuring that his administration would collaborate closely with the Ministry of Culture and Tourism to further expand the celebration.
Describing Idanre as vibrant and culturally alive, he said the energy of the night confirmed long-standing accounts of the town’s rich traditions, particularly during festive periods.
He thanked residents and visitors for their participation and good conduct, expressing hope that the new year would bring joy, good health and prosperity to the people.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Mr Adesoji Afolabi, said the return of the Mare Festival after nine years reflected Governor Aiyedatiwa’s commitment to cultural revival, grassroots development and tourism as a driver of economic growth and social cohesion.
He disclosed that the governor had approved the revival of four major cultural festivals across the state, including the Mare Festival linked to Oke Idanre; the Ilaje Boat Regatta scheduled for February at Araromi Beach; the Igogo Festival in Owo, slated for September, which promotes bead-making and Aso Oke; and the Akoko Unity Carnival associated with Ebomi Lake, scheduled for November.
According to him, the revival of the Mare Festival had rekindled hope, strengthened cultural pride and reaffirmed the relevance of tradition in Idanre.
He thanked the Idanre community, local government leadership, members of the local organising committee, and indigenes at home and in the diaspora for their support over the past two months and throughout the four days of activities.
The commissioner also expressed gratitude to the governor for approving the construction of a dual carriageway from Akure to Idanre, describing it as a major boost to tourism and agribusiness in the area, while acknowledging the support of corporate organisations and individuals.
The festival reached a thrilling peak with an electrifying performance by star artiste Teniola Apata, popularly known as Teni Makanaki, whose appearance sent waves of excitement through the arena.
Dignitaries at the event included the Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Adelami; former member of the House of Representatives for Idanre/Ifedore Federal Constituency, Hon Tajudeen Adefisoye; former Chief of Staff to former governor Olusegun Mimiko, Chief Kola Ademujimi; APC chieftain, Dr Miyuwa Adu; Chairman of Idanre Local Government, Hon Smart Omotadowa; the LCDA Chairman, Prince Kayode Aroloye; members of the State Executive Council; and political leaders from Idanre and neighbouring local governments.
