By Daniel Edu

The Kwara State Government has celebrated the union of 36 brides and grooms at the Awon mass wedding festival in Shao, Moro Local Government Area of Kwara. This annual cultural festival brings together women of marriageable age who are joined with their spouses in a large-scale ceremony.

Bolanle Olukoju, the state Commissioner for Communications, who represented the Kwara Government at the event, expressed delight at the gathering. She praised the festival for its role in showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Kwara State, bringing together people from different parts of the state and the country.

The event also marked the coronation of Oba Job Atolagbe as the new Ohoro of Shao. The commissioner reaffirmed the government’s commitment to preserving, sustaining, and promoting the state’s cultural heritage, including events such as the Ilorin Emirate Durbar, Patigi Regatta, and Ganni festival.

The festival is not only a celebration of love but also an opportunity to empower the brides with items like sewing machines, hair dryers, grinding machines, and other equipment to help them generate income. Corporate organizations have also been called upon to sponsor and support this event.

One of the brides, Ayoola Olaitan, expressed her happiness at getting married through the Awon wedding tradition, which allows her to embrace Shao customs and traditions while celebrating her marriage.

Another bride, Omolayo Gbenga, expressed her joy at being part of the celebrated brides after years of waiting. She highlighted the various gifts and support that brides receive through the Awon wedding tradition and called on corporate organizations to continue sponsoring the event.