As part of strategies to ensure the success of one of Nigeria’s most iconic cultural events, the House of Oduduwa, Ile Ife, Osun State, has appointed a traditional drum curator and promoter, Prince Adewale Laoye as Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee for the 2024 Festival.
The two-day festival, slated for June 26th-27th in the ancient city of Ile-Ife, will celebrate the rich drumming heritage of the Yoruba people.
As a respected personality and CEO of Aafin Ilu Centre in Ede, Osun State, Prince Laoye’s leadership quality is expected to run positively on the festival’s focus on promotion of cultural unity.
In a statement, Prince Laoye said he received the appointment with honour at the appointment, stating that the Ayan Agalu Festival is a cherished event that promotes peace, harmony, and pride in Yoruba cultural identity.
The professional drummer also hinted that he looks forward to working with other culturally minded members of the organizing committee to make the event a huge success and give an exceptional experience to drumming culture enthusiasts across the world.
Prince Laoye also thanked His Imperial Majesty, Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi and other stakeholders of the festival for counting him worthy of the assignment.
He however revealed that the 2024 Ayan Agalu festival will feature performances by master drummers, expert-led workshops, displays of various Yoruba drumming styles and skills, and a grand finale aimed at further uniting all participants in the art of drumming.
The Prince of Ede Kingdom also stated that the sacred Ayan Agalu drum has historically served as an instrument for communicating the message of peaceful coexistence globally.
In a related relationship development, one of the wives of Ooni, Olori Aderonke Ogunwusi has expressed confidence in Prince Laoye’s abilities, saying, “His wisdom and commitment will make the Ayan Agalu 2024 Festival a resounding success.”
The festival’s organizing committee is expected to announce the details of the event in the coming weeks.
