[A]bout 60 countries including 10 African countries and 19 states across Nigeria have indicated interest the first Nigerian Drums festival organised by the Ogun State Ministry of Culture and Tourism. The state Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Bashorun Muyiwa Oladipo stated this on Monday in Abeokuta during a press conference to herald the festival that begins on Tuesday and ends on Friday.
Oladipo who was flanked by Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Alhaja Salmot Otun disclosed the minister of Information and Culture , Alhaji Lai Muhammed and the state governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun would unveil the world tallest traditional drum made in the state. According to him, the world tallest drum which was made by an indigene of the state with 16 feet high was in correlation with Yoruba history. He however, said, as at the last count, no fewer than 19 states in Nigeria would feature while 50 countries such as United States of America, United Kingdom, Germany ,China and France have confirmed their participation through their ambassadors .
He also added that 10 African countries would participate in the festival which has been endorsed by Nobel Laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka, Federal Ministry of arts and Culture, and National Centre for Arts. He also said prominent Nigerian female talking drummers such as Aralola Olumuyiwa popularly known as Ara , Aanu, Olo and Adunni would make special appearances at the festival.
