The Osun Osogbo Sacred Grove, a UNESCO World Heritage
Site located in Osun State, Nigeria, represents a significant
cultural and spiritual landmark in Yoruba land. As a major
site for religious worship, traditional heritage, and cultural
tourism, it plays a pivotal role in the sustainable socio-
economic development of the region. This study
investigated stakeholders’ perceptions and involvement in
the cultural tourism potential and sustainable development
of the Osun Osogbo Grove. Employing a descriptive survey
research design, data were collected through structured
questionnaires administered to 359 respondents drawn from
four key stakeholder groups: religious adherents, vendors,
tour service providers, and government officials. Statistical
analyses including descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and
regression were applied to assess attitudinal dispositions and
stakeholder contributions. Results revealed that while socio-
demographic factors like age and education did not
significantly influence attitudes toward cultural tourism,
occupational type had a strong effect, suggesting the
importance of stakeholder roles. Furthermore, stakeholder
activities—particularly those of vendors, tour guides, cultural
practitioners, and religious custodians—were found to
significantly influence the development of cultural tourism
attributes. Despite some challenges, such as conflicting
stakeholder interests and the commercialization of cultural
events, a majority of respondents confirmed the positive role
stakeholders play in preserving cultural heritage and
promoting sustainable tourism. The study concludes that
stakeholder collaboration is essential for the sustained
development of the Osun Osogbo Grove. It recommends
enhanced policy support, stakeholder training, and inclusive planning frameworks to strengthen cultural tourism, preserve indigenous identity, and replicate this model in other heritage sites across Nigeria.