The National Institute for Cultural Orientation (NICO), representing the Federal Government, has forecast that the Annual World Orisa Congress could generate over $5bn in revenue. The initiative is set to draw over one million visitors from around the world, highlighting Nigeria’s Cultural Heritage while creating significant Investment opportunities. The event will focus on connecting the global African Diaspora with their ancestral roots, promoting the preservation of Nigeria’s cultural identity, and contributing to the country’s economic growth.
Biodun Ajiboye, the Executive Secretary of NICO, explained that the project aligns with Nigeria’s pressing need to diversify its Revenue sources and stimulate economic development. With the global success of similar cultural outreach events in countries such as Israel, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia, Nigeria hopes to replicate their successes by capitalising on its rich cultural heritage. Ajiboye believes that by tapping into the 500 million people of Orisa descent worldwide, particularly those in Brazil, Trinidad and Tobago, Cuba and other Caribbean nations, Nigeria can create a sustainable annual influx of visitors and foreign exchange.
World Orisa Congress will boost Nigeria’s GDP and global influence.
Moreover, the World Orisa Congress is poised to make a significant contribution to Nigeria’s GDP while fostering global cooperation, enhancing cross-cultural understanding, and elevating the country’s standing on the international stage. The event is expected to attract a diverse audience, with countries like Brazil, which has a large population of Orisa followers, anticipated to play an active role. The congress will centre on a variety of traditional and cultural practices, such as the preservation of traditional craftsmanship, social interactions, and ceremonial rites, which will further reinforce Nigeria’s position as a global leader in both cultural preservation and innovation.
Beyond the anticipated economic benefits, Ajiboye also stressed the congress’s importance in strengthening the bond between Africans in the Diaspora and their ancestral roots. This cultural reconnection offers a meaningful opportunity for reconciliation and unity, particularly for those whose ancestors were taken from Nigeria during the transatlantic slave trade. The project has gained considerable support from key stakeholders, including the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the National Diaspora Commission, both of which are actively collaborating to ensure the success and smooth execution of the congress. Through these partnerships, the congress aims to be a cultural gathering that fosters unity and paves the way for future global cultural engagements.
Cultural Initiative could establish Nigeria as a global leader.
For Nigeria, this cultural initiative represents a rare opportunity to tap into its potential as a major global cultural hub. However, its success hinges not only on attracting international visitors but also on the country’s ability to adequately manage the logistics, infrastructure, and resources necessary to sustain such a large-scale event. The government’s commitment to building relationships with the Diaspora and investing in cultural projects is commendable, but ensuring the continuity of these efforts will require consistent focus on education, governance, and infrastructure.
Furthermore, Nigeria must recognise that cultural initiatives like the World Orisa Congress can play an important role in reshaping its economic future. By embracing its cultural strengths and positioning itself as a leader in global cultural exchanges, Nigeria can enhance its national identity and generate long-term economic benefits. This initiative has the potential to attract both international tourism and investment, further solidifying Nigeria’s position on the global stage. If the government can follow through on its promises and overcome potential challenges, the congress could become an annual beacon of cultural pride and economic prosperity.
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Overall, the World Orisa Congress presents a compelling vision for Nigeria’s cultural and economic future. With proper investment, planning, and global collaboration, the country could see its rich heritage become a powerful driver of economic growth. However, sustaining this initiative and ensuring it has long-term success will require continuous effort and commitment from all stakeholders involved. Nigeria’s ability to realise this vision will ultimately depend on its collective determination to harness the power of Culture to foster economic and social advancement.