The 2024 Igbo-Ora Twins Festival drew an enthusiastic crowd, celebrating the unique cultural heritage of the town known for its high incidence of twin births. The event, held under the auspices of Rep. Abass A. Adigun (Agboworin), Chairman of the House Committee on Narcotic Drugs, welcomed dignitaries, community members, and visitors from across Nigeria and beyond.
In his keynote address, Agboworin expressed gratitude to Oyo State Governor Engr. Oluwaseyi Abiodun Makinde and other prominent figures, including Deputy Governor Barr. Bayo Lawal and local traditional rulers. He emphasized the significance of the festival in showcasing Oyo State’s commitment to preserving its culture and traditions, particularly the unique place of twins within the Igbo-Ora community.
“This ancient town, a renowned hub for multiple births, is not just notable in Oyo State but across Africa,” Agboworin stated. He highlighted the importance of maintaining cultural values amidst modernization and urged attendees to strengthen family and community ties.
The festival, which attracts tourists from various regions, reflects Oyo State’s efforts to promote its cultural heritage on a global stage. Agboworin concluded by wishing all attendees, especially the twins, a joyful celebration, reinforcing the event’s role in fostering unity and cultural appreciation.
The 2024 Igbo-Ora Twins Festival served as a vibrant reminder of the rich traditions that continue to thrive in the heart of Oyo State.
“My Principal, The Executive Governor of Oyo State, His Excellency, Engr. Oluwaseyi Abiodun Makinde, FNSE
The Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Barr. Bayo lawal
The Olu of Igbo-Ora land, His Royal Majesty, Oba Jimoh Olajide Titiloye (Asoroolu Ayinla V)
The Olu of Ilaro, His Royal Majesty, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle,
Other traditional rulers here present
Members of the State Executive Council, and other political functionaries,
Eminent Dignitaries,
Honorable guests, Proud parents of twins, the vibrant people of Igbo-Ora town, ladies and gentlemen, and members of the Press.
Let me also specially thank the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr Wasiu Olatunbosun; the Chairman of Ibarapa Central Local Government Area, Hon. Olusola Adeleke, and the members of the Planning Committee, for deeming it worthy to make the Chairman of this momentous occasion. I am truly honored.
I heartily welcome everyone to the 2024 Igbo-ora twin festival.
It is with great honour and profound gratitude that I stand before you, the people of Oyo State, our local and international visitors as well as other important guests, on this momentous occasion of the 2024 Igbo-Ora Twins Festival.
This annual festival does not only showcase the premium placed on culture and tradition by Oyo State government but also values the uniqueness of Igboora Community in the state.
However, the most important tale is that this ancient town, which is a melting pot of twins birth, is not only reputable among neighboring towns in Oyo State, Yorubaland, Nigeria but also in the Africa continent because of multiple birth record of twins in virtually every household.
In Yorubaland, we hold twins in high regard and, despite the many changes brought about by modernization, our dear state remains committed to preserving its unique culture and traditions. It is not therefore surprising that we go all out to celebrate twins every year in Igbo-ora Twins festival.
I am happy that Oyo State, under the leadership of my Principal, Governor ‘Seyi Makinde, has been able to put the festival on a global map by attracting tourists from far and wide.
As we continue to bask in the euphoria of the celebration, I want to urge us to continue to strengthen family bonds, community ties, embrace our cultural heritage and support initiatives that promote unity and understanding.
On this note, I wish everybody here present, including the twins, a very happy celebration.
Thank you and God bless us all.