During the 2024 edition of the festival, which took place at Sultan Beach, Badagry, on Tuesday, Adams highlighted the progress the historic town has experienced as a result of the festival's expansion.
“I am happy to tell you that the ancient town has continued to witness tremendous developments through the blessings of Olokun and Olosa deities,” Adams said.
He emphasized that the festival's initial two years of popularity and recognition established a strong foundation for the ongoing changes, which have created new opportunities and attracted both local and international investments to Badagry.
Adams commended the Lagos State Government for its commitment to developing Badagry, highlighting its rise as a key investment destination.
He mentioned that the choice to hold the festival in Badagry was aimed at leveraging the town's tourism potential, which has drawn over 30,000 dignitaries each year, including Yoruba traditional leaders and cultural enthusiasts from Brazil, Cuba, and the Benin Republic.
The Aare-Onakakanfo acknowledged the Federal Government for the ongoing reconstruction of the Lagos-Badagry Expressway, a long-standing request from the festival organizers.
He expressed hope that the road's completion would further enhance the town's appeal as a tourist destination.
Adams also revealed future plans for the festival, which include the development of a mini-stadium and a 300-room luxury hotel in Badagry to improve accommodation and hospitality options for attendees.
During the event, Oba Adekunle Makama, the Olowu of Owu Kuta, called on the federal government to collaborate with the Olokun Festival Foundation to promote tourism, emphasizing the importance of national prayers for Nigeria's prosperity.
Mr. Idowu Johnson, Director of the Lagos State Ministry of Arts, Culture, and Tourism, encouraged Nigerians to embrace their cultural heritage and urged parents to introduce their children to such festivals.
The 2024 edition of the festival, now known as the Olokun World Festival, was attended by traditional rulers from Lagos, Ogun, and the Benin Republic.