The Ọmumu Media Network (OMN) successfully hosted the third edition of its annual Cultural Talent Show in Osi-Ekiti Local Government Area, garnering significant praise and support from key government officials, academics, and community leaders.
The event, held at the Osi Town Hall, brought together dignitaries, including political officeholders, scholars, traditional rulers, and religious leaders, alongside local youth and residents.
The Deputy Governor of Kwara State, Elder Kayode Alabi, was represented by his Protocol Officer, Mr. Umar Ibrahim, while the Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Hajia Sa’adat Kawu Madibo, was represented by Mrs. Rachel Omoladun Kumuyi.
9japarrot reported that notable attendees also included the Olosi of Osi, HRM Oba Saliu Abdulkareem Adasofegbe, Chairman of Ekiti Imam and Ulamah, Sheikh Abdulsalam Saadudeen Ajisafe, and Prof. Binta Ajibola Suleiman, the Dean of Environmental Sciences and Head of the Kwara State University (KWASU) Osi Campus.
In her remarks, Prof. Binta Ajibola Suleiman lauded OMN for its commitment to preserving cultural identity and pledged institutional support on behalf of KWASU.
She also highlighted the university’s focus on entrepreneurship and community development, noting the local production of palm kernels as a key area of collaboration. To underscore this commitment, she announced the donation of a grading machine on behalf of the university’s Vice Chancellor and management to boost palm kernel production in the community.
Mrs. Rachel Kumuyi, representing the Commissioner for Tertiary Education, praised the AbdulRazaq administration for its extensive support for cultural revitalization through strategic policies and investments.
She described the talent show as a direct reflection of the governor’s vision to empower youth and foster social cohesion.
On behalf of the Ministry of Tertiary Education, I pledge our continued support for programs like this, she stated, in line with the vision of Governor AbdulRazaq to empower our youths, preserve our culture, and build a brighter tomorrow for all.
Guest speaker Rev. Father Raphael Ajewole encouraged a return to traditional practices, especially those of mothers from older generations, as a vital step toward preserving cultural heritage.
He commended the organizers and urged all participants to continue promoting local talent for sustainable community development.
The OMN Coordinator, Ambassador Abiodun Segun Ẹgẹ, expressed his gratitude to the network’s management and community stakeholders, describing the event as a crucial platform for youth empowerment.
Many of our youth are gifted but lack opportunities to realize the value of their skills, platform like this would make their dreams possible; he said.
Speaking also, His Royal Highness, Oba Saliu Abdulkareem Adasofegbe Arowobeku 1, the Olosi of Osi who colorfully graced the event alongside the Olosi in Council shower encomiums and royal praises on the organisers and the participants.
The royal farther prayed for the continued success of the vibrant cultural ideologies while extending appreciation to all dignitaries who graced the occasion.
The program featured a cultural quiz and debate competition involving four local secondary schools: Osi Central Secondary School, Iketa Grammar School, Ansarul Islam Secondary School, and CAC Secondary School.
Ansarul Islam Secondary School emerged as the winner, with CAC, Iketa Grammar, and Osi Central Secondary School securing second, third, and fourth places, respectively.
The event also served as a showcase for indigenous products, including locally produced palm kernel oil, Garri Osi, and iru (locust beans), highlighting the economic potential of local enterprises.
Attendees enjoyed cultural displays, traditional music, and goodwill messages from various dignitaries, including Chief Joseph Obanla, a senatorial aspirant for Kwara South, and Chief Gbenle Adeyemi, (the Chairman, Harmony Intercontinental Harmony Hotels and Tourism Ltd Ilorin) represented by Hon. Isaac Bolaji.
9japarrot report that the success of the third OMN Cultural Talent Show reinforces its role as a vital platform for preserving heritage while promoting education, entrepreneurship, and sustainable development within communities.
