Oyo State Plans Economic Shift to Arts, Tourism, and Exported Crafts

By Trending9ja Staff • November 7, 2026 • 1 min read

The Oyo State Government has revealed plans to move away from relying on crude oil and raw materials by tapping into the economic potential of tourism, arts, crafts, and cultural festivals. As reported by Vanguard, the state aims to turn these local heritage assets into viable commercial products for international export, generating foreign exchange and job opportunities.

The Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatubosun, made this known during a press conference at the state secretariat in Ibadan. He explained that the administration of Governor Seyi Makinde is intentionally repositioning culture from mere heritage preservation into a productive sector capable of attracting global investments and boosting wealth creation.

According to Vanguard, the press conference was organized in partnership with the Oyo State Investment and Public-Private Partnership Agency. The initiative will be anchored around the upcoming Oyo State Business Forum 2026, themed “Investment and Export Promotion of Arts and Crafts Business in Oyo State.” The forum will gather policymakers, exporters, investors, and local craftsmen to expand international trade opportunities.

Olatubosun stated that traditional knowledge, indigenous artistic works, and cultural celebrations hold immense financial value if researched, documented, and marketed properly. He emphasized that the state is transforming traditional annual gatherings into globally competitive entertainment and tourism products designed to draw foreign visitors and members of the African diaspora.

He also referenced the recent inclusion of the Sango Festival in Oyo Town on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, noting that it has significantly raised the state's international profile. Additionally, the commissioner highlighted the 2024 repackaging of the World Egungun Festival, which he claimed has already recorded higher attendance and growing foreign interest.

Sources: Vanguard