UNESCO declares Sango festival a global cultural heritage

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) has officially inscribed the Sango Festival on its Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Hannatu Musawa, Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy, presented the UNESCO certificate to the Alaafin of Oyo, His Majesty Oba Abimbola Abdulhakeem Owoade I, at the grand finale of the 2025 World Sango Festival held over the weekend in Oyo State.

Musawa described the recognition as a major milestone for Nigeria’s cultural landscape, highlighting it as a testament to the ministry’s dedication to preserving and promoting the nation’s rich heritage.

She noted that the achievement also supports international diplomacy, sustainable tourism, and community empowerment.

“I congratulate His Imperial Majesty, the new Sango Chief Priest, the Oyo community, and the entire Yoruba nation on this remarkable recognition,” Musawa said.

“The Sango Festival’s global inscription demonstrates effective collaboration between the ministry and the Oyo community and underscores its importance as shared global heritage.”

The minister further stated that the recognition aligns with the federal government’s goals of cultural promotion, wealth creation, employment generation, and sustainable development for host communities.

In response, the Alaafin of Oyo expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu and the ministry for their support in promoting Nigeria’s cultural identity globally.

He reaffirmed the Oyo Kingdom’s commitment to partnering with the federal government to advance Nigeria’s cultural heritage on the world stage.

The 2025 Sango Festival, which attracted dignitaries from across Nigeria and abroad, provided a fitting backdrop for the historic presentation, cementing the festival’s status as a symbol of Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage.