The agreement, signed May 9, 2026 on the sidelines of the colourful Okosi Iwopin Ajidagan 2026 Festival, marks a defining moment in the cultural and economic trajectory of Iwopin, as the Kingdom embarks on a journey to elevate the annual Okosi boat regatta from a celebrated local heritage event into a globally recognised cultural tourism spectacle.

Speaking on the significance of the agreement, His Royal Majesty, Oba Sunday Adeniyi Agbojo, the Liken of Iwopin Kingdom, delivered a profound and visionary address that underscored the cultural, historical, and transformational importance of the landmark partnership.

Okosi Iwopin: A heritage reawakened for the world

His Royal Majesty described the Okosi Festival as more than a celebration, but a living testament to the identity, resilience, and maritime heritage of the Iwopin people.

“This is not merely the signing of an agreement; it is the opening of a new chapter in the history of our Kingdom,” the monarch declared. “For generations, the Okosi Festival has been the heartbeat of our people, a sacred convergence of culture, history, and communal pride expressed through the rhythms of the waters, the splendour of our regatta, and the unity of our people.”

The Royal Father emphasised that the partnership with DTML represents a deliberate and strategic effort to ensure that this heritage is not only preserved but amplified across Nigeria, Africa and beyond.

“In an age where the world is increasingly interconnected through technology, it is imperative that our heritage is not confined to our shores alone. Through this collaboration, the sights, sounds, and spirit of Okosi will travel beyond Iwopin, beyond Ogun State, and beyond Nigeria, to reach audiences across Africa and the global community.”

Drawing a powerful historical parallel, Oba Agbojo positioned the Okosi Festival within the broader narrative of African cultural renaissance.

“We recall with pride the great cultural convergence that took place during FESTAC ‘77 in Lagos, where the richness of Black heritage was displayed before the world. The Okosi Festival, which was proudly showcased at this historic event, stands in that same lineage of cultural excellence, a showcase of identity, heritage, and tradition that deserves its rightful place on the global stage.”

He further noted that the digital transformation initiative would ensure that the festival evolves while retaining its authenticity.

“This partnership guarantees that while we embrace modern technology, we do not lose the essence of who we are. Our traditions will remain sacred, our stories will remain authentic, and our people will remain at the centre of this transformation.”

“This is not merely the signing of an agreement; it is the opening of a new chapter in the history of our Kingdom,” the monarch declared. “For generations, the Okosi Festival has been the heartbeat of our people, a sacred convergence of culture, history, and communal pride expressed through the rhythms of the waters, the splendour of our regatta, and the unity of our people.”

 

A cultural and economic transformation agenda

The monarch highlighted the broader implications of the agreement, particularly its potential to drive economic growth and youth empowerment within the Kingdom.

“This initiative is not only about culture; it is about prosperity. It is about creating opportunities for our youth, empowering our artisans, and positioning Iwopin as a destination of choice for cultural tourism. Through digital innovation, we will unlock new economic pathways for our people.”

He expressed confidence in DTML’s capacity to deliver on the ambitious vision outlined in the the landmark partnership agreement.

“We have found in DTML a partner that understands both the power of storytelling and the importance of technology in shaping the future. Together, we will ensure that Okosi becomes a beacon of cultural pride and a driver of economic advancement.”

Edi Lawani: Bridging heritage and global entertainment

Entertainment legend and Advisory Board Member at DTML, Mr. Edi Lawani, brought a unique perspective to the partnership, positioning it within the global evolution of cultural festivals as platforms of influence and economic value.

“This is a defining moment, not just for Iwopin, but for Nigeria’s cultural landscape,” he stated. “Across the world, cultural festivals have evolved into powerful global brands, platforms that attract tourism, investment, and international recognition. What we are witnessing here is the birth of such a transformation for the Okosi Festival.”

Mr. Lawani emphasised that the fusion of tradition and modern media would unlock unprecedented opportunities.

“The richness of the Okosi Festival lies in its authenticity: the regatta, the cultural expressions, the communal energy. What DTML brings to the table is the ability to package and project this authenticity in a way that resonates globally, without diluting its essence.”

He noted that the initiative aligns with global trends in cultural consumption.

“Today’s audience is digital. They experience culture through screens, through immersive content, through storytelling that transcends geography. By digitising Okosi Iwopin, we are not just preserving it; we are making it accessible to the world.”

Mr. Lawani also highlighted the importance of positioning the festival within the international tourism ecosystem.

“With the right execution, Okosi Iwopin can become a destination event, something people plan their calendars around, just as they do with major festivals across Africa and beyond. This partnership lays the foundation for that reality.”

Technology, catalyst for cultural transformation

Providing the strategic and operational perspective, Mr. Shina Badaru, Founder and Chairman of DTML, described the agreement as a bold step in redefining how culture is preserved and promoted in the digital age.

“At DTML, we believe that culture and technology are not opposing forces; they are complementary drivers of progress,” he stated. “This partnership embodies that philosophy by leveraging digital tools to amplify one of Nigeria’s most unique cultural assets.”

Mr. Badaru explained that the Okosi Iwopin programme aligns with the technology group’s “Nigeria Heritage Initiative” which includes the development of a digital ecosystem for the festival.

Under the plan, DTML said it has success acquired the premium Nigerian internet domain, www.okosiiwopin.ng, to serve as the digital home of the annual Okosi Ajidagan Festival on the internet.

“The platform,” according to Mr. Badaru, “will drive strategic storytelling, tourism promotion, partnerships, media engagement and innovative digital experiences that will elevate the festival onto the global tourism map.”

He added that, “we are deploying a multi-layered strategy that includes a dedicated digital platform, immersive multimedia content, live streaming capabilities, and the creation of a digital cultural archive. This ensures that the Okosi Iwopin Festival is not only experienced physically but also digitally, by audiences anywhere in the world.”

He stressed that the initiative goes beyond visibility to deliver measurable impact.

“This is about building a sustainable cultural economy. Through strategic partnerships, sponsorships, and global media engagement, we will create value that benefits the community, supports local enterprises, and attracts investment.”

Mr. Badaru also underscored the importance of capacity building within the community.

“A key component of this initiative is empowering local youth with skills in digital media, content creation, and event technology. This ensures that the transformation is inclusive and that the benefits are felt across the community.”

Positioning Okosi Iwopin on the global stage

The agreement establishes a long-term framework for collaboration, spanning a diverse array of sustained effort to build the Okosi Iwopin Festival into a globally recognised brand.

Under the agreement, DTML assumes the role of Exclusive Strategic Partner for the digitalisation and promotion of the festival, while the Iwopin Kingdom preserves cultural stewardship and institutional support.

At its core, the partnership is about repositioning the Okosi Iwopin Festival as a flagship cultural event that reflects the richness of Nigeria’s heritage while embracing the possibilities of the digital future.

From the vibrant boat regatta that defines the festival to the intricate cultural expressions that accompany it, every element is set to be documented, preserved, and showcased to a global audience.

The initiative will leverage advanced media production, strategic marketing, and international partnerships to ensure that the festival gains visibility across key markets.

New era for cultural heritage in Nigeria

The agreement between the Kingdom of Iwopin and DTML signals a broader shift in how cultural heritage is approached in Nigeria, moving from preservation in isolation to promotion through innovation.

It represents a model that can be replicated across other cultural assets in the country, demonstrating how technology can be harnessed to unlock value while safeguarding tradition.

With the combined strength of traditional authority, creative expertise, and technological innovation, the festival is poised to become a symbol of cultural pride, economic opportunity, and international recognition.

In the words of His Royal Majesty: “The world will hear our story. The world will see our culture. And the world will know Iwopin.”