Ibadan Agog As CCII Unveils 15-Day Itinerary For 2026 Cultural Festival

The ancient city of Ibadan is officially agog as the 2026 Ibadan Cultural Festival hits high gear following the unveiling of a blockbuster 15-day itinerary by the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII). The festival, which has already seen high-level intellectual discourse at the Ibadan House, reached a symbolic peak on Wednesday with a traditional homage to the Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, at the Aafin Olubadan.

Speaking with journalists in Ibadan, the President General of the CCII, Chief Sulaimon Ajeniyi Ajewole, disclosed that the festival serves as a strategic vehicle for the cultural and socio-economic development of the ancient city. He explained that the celebration is specifically designed to showcase the rich culture, food, fashion, and history of Ibadanland to the world. To ensure a robust 2026 edition, the planning committee, headed by Mogaji Moshood Akere, has introduced new activities aimed at strengthening relationships among over 200 affiliate clubs across Nigeria and the diaspora, including the United States.

In a major boost to the local economy, First City Monument Bank (FCMB) has officially partnered with the CCII to host the festivities. Representing the bank, Zonal Head Salawu Kabir noted that the partnership is designed to help the next generation transform heritage into tangible opportunities for artisans, traders, and the creative sector. This economic focus is further bolstered by a high-profile Business Dinner in Alakia and a Youth Conference embedded within the festival schedule to ensure broad community engagement.

The atmosphere across the metropolis is expected to reach a fever pitch this Saturday, April 11, with the dual celebration of the celebrated “Amala Day” and the “Ibadan Loni Fuji” launch at the Ibadan House in Oke Aremo. These fan-favorite events follow scheduled historical tours of the iconic Mapo Hall and competitive sporting finals at Eleyele. Chief Ajewole stressed that the celebration is not restricted to indigenes alone, as all residents and visitors are encouraged to participate in the heritage showcase. To facilitate a smooth experience, Mogaji Akere has assured the public that adequate security arrangements have been put in place for all festival venues.

The 15-day extravaganza will culminate in a massive cultural display and grand finale at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, on Saturday, April 18. The event will be graced by a distinguished assembly of eminent personalities led by the Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde. The festival will also honor several eminent Nigerians, including the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume; the Registrar of JAMB, Prof. Is-haq Oloyede; Senator Abdulfatai Omotayo Buhari; and the Vice Chancellor of First Technical University, Prof. Adesola Ajayi. The celebration will officially conclude with a thanksgiving service at St. Peter’s Church, Aremo, marking what many describe as the most well-coordinated edition in recent history.