The Oyo State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting religious tolerance, peaceful coexistence and equal recognition of the three major faiths in the state.
Governor Seyi Makinde stated this on Thursday at the 2026 Isese Day celebration held at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Ibadan, where he stressed the importance of unity and mutual respect among adherents of Christianity, Islam and traditional religion.
The Governor, represented by the Deputy Chief of Staff, Kazeem Adeniyi, said his administration would continue to create an enabling environment for people of different faiths to practise their religions without fear or discrimination.
According to him, the recognition of Isese by the state government was not aimed at promoting one religion over another but at preserving an important aspect of Yoruba history, culture and identity.
He said, “We believe that peaceful coexistence among all faiths is key to the development and unity we are building in our dear state.”
Makinde also commended adherents of traditional religion for their efforts in preserving Yoruba culture, values, customs and traditions, assuring them of the government’s continued partnership with traditional institutions.
He said such partnership would also help the state to strengthen its cultural tourism potential, attract visitors and create economic opportunities for residents.
The Governor urged residents to continue supporting government programmes and initiatives aimed at improving the socio-economic development of the state, saying peaceful coexistence remained essential to achieving sustainable development.
Also speaking at the event, the Acting Governor of the state, Barrister Bayo Lawal, described unity and interfaith cooperation as essential ingredients for the continued development and stability of Oyo State.
Lawal, who was represented by Adeniyi, said the annual Isese Day celebration had gone beyond a mere cultural festival, describing it as an expression of the people’s commitment to preserving their heritage while contributing to the building of a peaceful and prosperous society.
He said, “Unity and cooperation among the people, irrespective of religious differences, have helped to keep Oyo State stable. We must continue to strengthen this spirit of togetherness because development cannot thrive in an atmosphere of division and intolerance.”
The Acting Governor urged residents to sustain the culture of mutual assistance and cooperation among the different religious groups, saying the government would continue to encourage activities that promote peace and understanding.
In their separate remarks, the Aare Isese of Oyo State, Omikunmi Egbelade, and the Araba/Olu Isese of Ibadanland, High Chief Ifalere Odegbola, called for a structured programme for the documentation, preservation and promotion of Isese traditions.
They expressed concern that a significant body of indigenous knowledge could be lost if urgent steps were not taken to document it, particularly as elderly custodians of the tradition continued to pass away.
The traditional religion leaders said preserving Isese should not be interpreted as a rejection of modern education, science or technology, urging young people to combine modern knowledge with an understanding of their cultural roots.
They also challenged youths to pursue legitimate careers and contribute positively to society rather than allowing criminal elements to exploit them or draw them into unlawful activities.
While commending the state government for granting official recognition to Isese and other cultural festivals, the leaders appealed for increased funding and logistical support for cultural programmes.
They also called for greater government attention to the protection and preservation of sacred, historical and cultural sites across the state.
Speaking on behalf of traditional rulers in the state, the Balogun of Ibadanland and representative of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, appealed to religious leaders and their followers to promote tolerance and avoid actions capable of triggering religious conflict.
Oba Ajibola stressed the need for all religious groups to recognise the rights of others and work together in the interest of peace and development.
The Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Wasiu Olatunbosun, said the Makinde administration had given greater recognition to traditional institutions, culture and indigenous festivals as part of its efforts to promote the state’s cultural heritage.
He said the celebration of Isese Day had provided another opportunity to showcase the richness of Yoruba culture while promoting unity among residents.
The event featured cultural displays, traditional performances, Ifá renditions and prayers for continued peace, progress and prosperity in Oyo State and Nigeria.