NINE YEARS AFTER, MARE FESTIVAL ROARS BACK IN IDANRE AS GOV AIYEDATIWA HAILS CULTURAL REVIVAL, YOUTH CREATIVITY
* Dual carriageway to Idanre to boost tourism, agribusiness
The ancient town of Idanre, on Tuesday night, bubbled with music, colour and raw cultural pride as the Mare Festival made a return after nine years, drawing thousands of residents and visitors for the grand finale of the 2025 edition.
For hours, Ondo State Governor, Dr Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, stood before an electrified crowd, absorbing the energy of a people reunited with a festival many had thought faded into history.
In his address at the event, Governor Aiyedatiwa described the revival of the Mare Festival as a powerful statement of cultural rebirth, declaring that despite globalisation and cultural exchanges, Ondo State must preserve and celebrate its indigenous identity.
He said the state is richly endowed with distinct festivals across its various communities, each defining history, values and identity, stressing that culture remains a strong unifying force among the people.
The Governor expressed delight at performances that blended tradition with modern expression, particularly by young artistes who fused rap and contemporary rhythms with the Idanre language.
According to him, the displays highlighted the fact that culture could evolve without losing its soul.
He noted that the festival had provided a vital platform for youths to showcase their talents, expressing optimism that several talents were discovered during the four-day programme, which also featured a marathon and various entertainment activities aimed at promoting social well-being.
Commending the conduct of the crowd, the Governor praised the stronger youths for protecting rather than intimidating younger attendees, describing the atmosphere as orderly, mature and exemplary.
Impressed by the turnout and discipline, Governor Aiyedatiwa promised a bigger and more colourful Mare Festival next year, assuring that his administration would work closely with the Ministry of Culture and Tourism to expand the celebration.
Describing Idanre as vibrant and lively, the Governor said the energy of the night confirmed long-standing accounts that the community remains culturally alive, especially during festive periods.
He thanked residents and visitors for their conduct and participation, expressing confidence that the coming year would usher in joy, good health and prosperity for the people.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Mr Adesoji Afolabi, said the return of the Mare Festival after nine years was a clear demonstration of the governor's commitment to cultural revival, grassroots development and tourism as a catalyst for economic growth and peace.
He disclosed that upon assumption of office, Governor Aiyedatiwa approved the revival of four major cultural festivals in the state.
According to him, these include the Mare Festival tied to Oke Idanre; the Ilaje Boat Regatta scheduled for February at Araromi Beach; the Igogo Festival in Owo slated for September, which promotes bead-making and Aso Oke; and the Akoko Unity Carnival linked to Ebomi Lake in Akoko, scheduled for November.
He said the return of the festival had rekindled hope, strengthened cultural pride and reaffirmed the relevance of tradition in Idanre.
The commissioner appreciated the Idanre community, the local government leadership, the chairman and members of the local organising committee, as well as indigenes at home and in the diaspora, for their support over the past two months and throughout the four days of activities, declaring that the Mare Festival had come to stay.
He also thanked the governor for approving the dual carriageway from Akure to Idanre, describing it as a major boost to tourism and agribusiness, while acknowledging the support of corporate bodies and individuals.
Star artiste, Teniola Apata, fondly called Teni Makanaki, set the festival aglow with her electrifying and melodious performance, sending waves of excitement through the arena.
Those in attendance included the Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Adelami; former member of the House of Representatives, Idanre/Ifedore Federal Constituency, Hon. Tajudeen Adefisoye; former Chief of Staff to a former Governor of Ondo State, Chief Kola Ademujimi; APC chieftain, Dr Miyuwa Adu; Chairman of Idanre Local Government, Hon Smart Omotadowa; the LCDA Chairman, Prince Kayode Aroloye; members of the State Executive Council; and political leaders from Idanre and other local governments, among others.
Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan,
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
December 31, 2025.
