By Gbenga Sodeinde in Ado Ekiti
In a remarkable show of support for cultural preservation and community engagement, several high-profile government and non government officials from Ekiti State will be attending the much-anticipated Ayo Olopon Game Event this weekend.
Amb Oladele Emmanuel Ayotunde (Ayo Olopon Group Sweden Project Director )
The event, which celebrates the traditional Yoruba game of Ayo Olopon, will witness the presence of these esteemed dignitaries, each bringing their commitment to fostering unity and cultural heritage within the state.
Leading the lineup of Special Guests of Honour is Hon. Dr. Olalekan Ijidale, Director-General of the Ekiti State Bureau of Local Content, Office of the Governor. Dr. Ijidale, who has been instrumental in promoting local development within the state, is expected to deliver a keynote address on the importance of preserving cultural traditions in the face of modernization
His presence reinforces the state’s dedication to promoting local values and nurturing community participation.
Also in attendance will be Prince Adetola Ademola, Chairman of the Ekiti State Mineral Resources Development Agency. As a prominent figure in the development of the state’s natural resources, Prince Ademola’s support for the event highlights the intersection of economic development and cultural preservation, symbolizing the state’s holistic approach to progress.
His role as Special Guest of Honour underscores the importance of aligning heritage and governance for the benefit of the people.
Another key dignitary is Amb. Wale Ojo-Lanre, Director-General of the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development. Ojo-Lanre, known for his tireless work in promoting Ekiti State as a cultural and tourism hub, will bring his wealth of experience to the event. His presence reflects the state’s vision to leverage traditional games like Ayo Olopon as a means to attract tourism and boost local economies.
The event will also be graced by Hon. Dele Owoju, State Commandant of the Peace Corps in Ekiti State. Hon. Owoju’s leadership 
n maintaining peace and security within the state is well-known, and his participation as a Special Guest of Honour highlights the significance of unity and collaboration in ensuring the success of community-centered initiatives like the Ayo Olopon Game Event.
Kazeem Sanusi, the Chief Responsibility Officer, DFSP Africa who is one of our official supporters is also among the Special Guests of honor for the day. K.S seeks fulfillment by utilizing his skills and potentials to facilitate substantial developmental impact for the larger society in his core areas of interest, passion, expertise, and experience while obtaining appropriate levels of compensation in so doing.
He is passionate about sustainable, large-scale, commercially viable infrastructure project development, finance structuring, and delivery in line with international best practices.
Finally, Prince Adeniyi Adedipe (Apase), the State Commandant of Anti-Grazing in Ekiti State, will also be present at the event. Prince Adedipe’s efforts in safeguarding the state’s agricultural lands and promoting peaceful coexistence between herders and farmers have earned him widespread respect.
Comedian
Special Guest
Ayo Olopon Global Festival 2024
His attendance symbolizes the synergy between cultural preservation and state security efforts, further elevating the importance of this event.
The involvement of these distinguished officials signifies the government’s support for cultural heritage and youth engagement.
Credit: Heritage News