All is set for the 2017 edition of African Drums Festival, to be organised by the Ogun State government.

Billed to hold from Thursday, April 20, to Saturday, April 22, the festival is an expanded version of the 2016 maiden edition tagged the Nigerian Drums Festival.

The Ogun State Government had during the 2016 edition unveiled the world’s tallest drum.

Speaking at a World Press Conference to unveil the official logo for this year’s festival yesterday, Governor Ibikunle Amosun, who was represented by his Deputy, Chief (Mrs.) Yetunde Onanuga, said over 20 African countries have so far indicated interest to participate during the festival.

This, he added, is in addition to the over 12 states of the federation that have so far confirmed their attendance.

The Governor said that the festival, with the theme, “Reviving Our Culture in Drums”, would reveal the richness and depth of Ogun, Nigeria, and by extension, African culture, to the world.

Amosun, while emphasising the preservation of African cultural heritage, said “the 2017 African Drums Festival would afford us the opportunity to learn from our cultural values and diversity and promote African unity.”

Also speaking, Chairman of the 2017 African Drums Festival Local Organising Committee and Secretary to the State Government, Barr. Taiwo Adeoluwa, said the event would enhance the economic value of the citizens by showcasing talents and the cultural heritage.

Adeoluwa added that the state government is committed to sustaining and regenerating the festival, adding that “this we will do as part of our avowed determination to rebuild our dear state. We have been able to put Ogun State in the spot light once again for good reasons, but more importantly, as a trail blazer.”

In his welcome address, Ogun State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Barr. Muyiwa Oladipo, said the festival would foster development, growth and unity, not only in Nigeria, but also in Africa.