The Federal Government has officially thrown its weight behind the Omoge Asa Cultural Pageantry, recognising the initiative as a crucial vehicle for safeguarding culture, empowering young people, and fostering national pride among Nigerian youth.
Minister's Official Endorsement and Vision
The formal endorsement was communicated by the Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, through an official letter sent to Professor Anjola Robbin. Professor Robbin serves as the Dean of the Faculty of Arts at Lead City University, Ibadan, and is the convener of the pageantry.
In the letter, the Minister conveyed the Federal Ministry of Youth Development's full support, highlighting that Omoge Asa stands as a vibrant symbol of identity, creativity, and meaningful engagement for the youth. He described the platform as one that mirrors Nigeria's extensive cultural diversity while creating avenues for young women to develop intellectually, socially, and economically.
"As a nation blessed with profound cultural diversity, it is our responsibility to preserve, promote and celebrate the heritage that binds us," Minister Olawande stated. He emphasised that Omoge Asa meets this duty by offering a dignified stage for young women to display their cultural intelligence, leadership, artistic talents, and dedication to community development.
Beyond Beauty: A Cultural Movement for National Identity
The Minister stressed that the initiative goes far beyond the traditional concept of a beauty contest. He framed it as a cultural movement that reinforces national identity and motivates young Nigerians to connect with their heritage confidently and proudly.
According to Olawande, Omoge Asa is pivotal in redefining how youth interact with culture by emphasising the value of tradition, intellect, creativity, and social impact. He further noted that the pageantry strongly aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, especially in sectors involving youth creativity, cultural innovation, community development, and economic empowerment.
He explained that by highlighting tradition through fashion, language, performances, and storytelling, the platform makes a significant contribution to national efforts aimed at building a generation of culturally rooted, socially responsible, and globally competitive young Nigerians.
Event Details and Broader Support
The Minister praised the organisers for their steadfastness, vision, and commitment to excellence, heritage preservation, and youth development. He described their work in nurturing new talents while showcasing Nigeria's rich cultural identity as both timely and highly commendable.
"On behalf of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, I extend best wishes for a successful and impactful edition of the Omoge Asa Cultural Pageantry," Olawande said, expressing hope that the initiative would continue to inspire unity, pride, and a renewed appreciation for Nigeria's beautiful heritage.
The upcoming third edition of Omoge Asa is scheduled for April 16, 2026. The second edition, held in 2025, previously received endorsements from the governments of Oyo, Ekiti, Ogun, and Osun States. The initiative enjoys support from Academy Suites in Ibadan.
Professor Anjola Robbin, also known as the Akoni Birin Oodua, has earned widespread recognition for her role in advancing cultural education and youth empowerment through creative avenues. Under her leadership, the pageantry has grown into a respected cultural project that prioritises intellectual depth, entrepreneurship, and community impact alongside cultural expression.
The Omoge Asa Cultural Pageantry celebrates African heritage and empowers young women from universities, polytechnics, and colleges across Southwest Nigeria.
