The Egungun Festival, an age-old cultural celebration deeply rooted in the spiritual and social fabric of Yoruba land, has once again come alive. As the revered masquerade—Jalaruru paid homage to the palace earlier in the day, his vibrant entourage stretched from the royal grounds to Queen Elizabeth Road, capturing the admiration and participation of the people. The scene was a reminder of our rich heritage, and a glimpse into what the future of this cultural event could look like.
One can only imagine the electrifying moment if a proud son of the soil, like the legendary Fuji icon Obesere, led the file-out in grand style. Such a moment would not only reinforce community pride but also mirror the visual elegance and unity seen at events like Ojude Oba in Ijebu land, where families turn out in coordinated splendor to honor the Awujale. There is so much potential here—ripe for expression, celebration, and elevation.
Over time, the Egungun festival has remained a sacred traditional rite, respected for its spiritual significance and ancestral connections. However, as with all living traditions, there is room to evolve—not in substance, but in presentation. Recently, Wasiu Ajani Adewale Olatubosun hosted the World Egungun Festival, an effort aimed at globalizing the masquerade culture. It is a brilliant idea, one that should not stand alone but be harmonized with the original festival we all grew up identifying with.
There is now a growing call—indeed, a cultural imperative—to rebrand the Egungun Festival without diluting its essence. By doing so, we can create an experience that honors our forebears while inviting the world to witness and participate in our heritage. Such rebranding doesn’t mean commercialization; rather, it is about improving structure, creating relatable moments, attracting tourism, and sustaining cultural pride among younger generations.
The Blueprint for Rebranding
Traditionally, the Egungun rites span over one to two weeks, involving spiritual cleansing, ancestral homage, and community bonding. This core should remain untouched. However, following the ritual period, we propose a grand concert-style event—a modern cultural carnival featuring:
• A replica parade of various Egungun types, with explanations of their meanings and origins
• Artistic performances rooted in Yoruba tradition, led by local and international entertainers with ties to the culture
• Exhibitions and markets showcasing Yoruba crafts, fashion, and cuisine
• Workshops and storytelling sessions for children and tourists to learn about the Egungun’s purpose and history
• Partnerships with tour operators to draw visitors from Nigeria and abroad
This dual-layered celebration would protect the traditional rites while opening up new economic and cultural opportunities for the host community. It would also serve as a platform for cultural education and intergenerational connection—two things often missing in today’s fast-paced, globalized world.
The Role of Cultural Icons and Stakeholders
Icons like Obesere, Taye Currency, Tiri Leather and all others, who personify the fusion of Yoruba tradition and popular culture, can serve as powerful ambassadors for this evolved festival. Their participation, especially in ceremonial or symbolic roles, would draw attention to the celebration while lending it authenticity and appeal.
Cultural stakeholders, including traditional rulers, local governments, ministries of culture and tourism, and creative industry players must come together to support this initiative. Institutions like the Oyo State Ministry of Culture and Tourism can take the lead in developing a formal framework for the festival’s expansion, while maintaining respect for the traditional custodians of the Egungun rites.
Conclusion: Preserving the Soul, Sharing the Spirit
The Egungun Festival is more than a celebration—it is a bridge to the past and a gift to the future. As the world searches for meaning, roots, and authentic cultural experiences, Yoruba land stands with an offering that is both spiritual and spectacular.
By thoughtfully rebranding the Egungun Festival, we are not only preserving a legacy; we are also inviting the world to understand it, celebrate it, and respect it. We are telling our story in our own voice—and showing that tradition can evolve without losing its soul.
Indeed, it is doable. The time is now.
Idris Animasaun is a culture and heritage preservation enthusiast.
