In a bid to boost tourism and stimulate economic growth in Oyo State, Ninja Naija Incorporated, an Entertainment and Tourism Production Company, is collaborating with the Oyo State Government to present the inaugural New Year’s Eve Countdown, aptly titled “Oyo Countdown 2025.”
This year-end extravaganza, themed “Celebrating Culture, Creativity, and Unity,” is scheduled for December 30 and 31, 2024, and will take place simultaneously across key locations in Oyo State’s three Senatorial Districts—Oyo Central, Oyo South, and Oyo North.
The event is designed to usher in 2025 with a vibrant celebration of local culture and artistry.
According to a statement released on Sunday by Festival Director Dare Fasasi, also known as Baba Dee and elder brother to the late Sound Sultan, the festival will spotlight the talent and ingenuity of Oyo State’s artists and performers.
The state’s Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatunbosun, expressed the government’s excitement about partnering with Ninja Naija Incorporated to host the groundbreaking event.
“This event is a testament to our government’s commitment to promoting tourism and developing the creative economy by leveraging the state’s cultural and creative assets for socio-economic growth. Through this partnership, we aim to attract visitors and provide opportunities for local businesses and talents to flourish.
“We believe that this New Year’s countdown will be a catalyst for growth and development in our state, and we look forward to welcoming visitors from all over the world to join in the festivities,” he said.
Olatunbosun also emphasized the administration’s dedication to advancing the state’s culture and tourism sectors.
“The administration of His Excellency, Engr. Seyi Makinde is committed to unlocking the vast cultural and tourism potential of Oyo State. The administration has formulated a robust blueprint to drive the growth and development of this important sector, and we’re also collaborating with other stakeholders in the public and private sectors to develop tourist potential across the state.
“To further boost tourism, we’ve organised the International Tourism Summit Oyo State (ITS Oyo State 2024), a two-day immersive event that brings together stakeholders to facilitate the growth and development of the sector. Our goal is to position Oyo State as a leading cultural and tourism destination, and we’re making significant strides in achieving this objective,” Olatunbosun added.
The festival will be preceded by a week of cultural and creative activities, as revealed by Fasasi.
These will include traditional oral chanting contests, dance performances blending the traditional with the contemporary, music and DJ competitions, and a grand musical showcase leading up to the main events on December 30 and 31.
