*Reaffirms commitment to cultural preservation and women’s empowerment
By Kehinde Erin
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi state, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to preserving cultural values, empowering women and girls by providing a safe, secure, and inclusive environment for all to thrive.
Speaking at the grand finale of the 2025 Ovia Osese festival in Ogori recently, Governor Ododo described the event as a cherished cultural heritage and a moral guide that aligns with his administration’s efforts to instill dignity, discipline, and purpose in young people.
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The Ovia Osese Festival in Ogoriland is more than just a celebration. It’s a powerful driver of community unity and cultural heritage preservation.
The festival celebrates purity, chastity, and womanhood, emphasising the importance of preserving the sanctity of human life and enhancing human dignity through responsible procreation.
The Governor described the Ovia Osese festival as a celebration of identity and intergenerational bonds, calling it one of the state’s most historic and symbolic cultural festivals, going beyond just cultural celebration.
“This festival which honours young girls who have preserved their purity and discipline is a shining example of how our culture can promote virtue, character and community strength.
“As a Government, we see our daughters as the future. We are committed to creating opportunities and safe spaces for them to grow, lead, and succeed”, Governor Ododo said.
The Governor praised the Ogori community for preserving their tradition and encouraged other communities to uphold customs that promote the moral and developmental growth of young girls and women.
He called on the people of Ogori to uphold peace and unity, noting that it would validate the purpose of their gathering for the Ovia Osese Festival.
He highlighted the state’s ongoing initiatives to promote gender inclusion, quality education, healthcare, and skill development for girls and women.
He stressed the need to sustain and build on the prevailing peace and unity in the Ogori community for the benefit of its people.
Governor Ododo added that Kogi State has achieved significant women inclusion in governance, with women playing key roles in decision-making and community development.
He noted that ongoing investments in education, healthcare, agriculture, and infrastructure are crucial for the state’s development and the future of its youth.
Commending the significance of culture, Governor Ododo stressed the need to balance traditional values with modernisation, urging community leaders to collaborate with the government to instill strong morals in young people.
“At a time when modern influences often change traditional values, the Ovia Osese festival reminds us of who we are, it teaches our young people that self respect, discipline and moral clarity are not outdated concepts but they are endearing foundations upon which great societies are built”, he said.
He urged the Ogori community to continue promoting peace, unity, and togetherness, saying it would strengthen cultural bonds across the state.
He assured that his administration is committed to promoting equity, protecting women’s and girls’ rights, and building an inclusive future for all Kogi State citizens.
Governor Ododo invited tourists, cultural enthusiasts, and development partners to support the festival, stating that Kogi State welcomes tourism, investment, and cultural exchange.
The Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Mrs. Acharu Okpanachi, highlighted the crucial role of culture in fostering unity, peace, and economic growth, thanking Governor Ododo for supporting the festival and promoting the state’s cultural diversity.
The President of Ogori Descendants Union (ODU), Dr. Aiso Osiwomequn, called for greater unity and inclusion in Ogori land, noting that the people have always come together, drawing strength from their shared identity and history.
He thanked the Governor for kindly attending the event and supporting the festival.
The event’s highlights include a parade by the “Children of the Maiden” known as Ibusuke, and the Ivias dance performance. Additionally, various cultural dances and displays from different age groups and ODU branches acros the nation were showcased.
