By Daniel Abe
The vibrant colours, sounds and rich traditions of Ekiti took centre stage on Tuesday as the Irewolede Local Council Development Area (LCDA) joined other councils across the state in a grand celebration of culture at the opening of EKIFEST 2026.
The five-day Ekiti State Festival of Arts and Culture, themed “Continuity: Pathway to an Enduring Shared Prosperity,” kicked off with a colourful procession from Christ School, Ado-Ekiti, to the Ekiti Mini Pavilion, Fajuyi, as cultural enthusiasts, government officials and residents converged for the annual celebration.
The festival was formally declared open by the Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, who was represented by his Deputy, Princess Monisade Afuye.
Leading the Irewolede LCDA contingent was the Executive Chairperson of the council, Hon. (Mrs.) Dupe Bakare, who led a team of senior officials and management staff to the festival.
Among the officials in the delegation were the HLA, Mr. Babatunde Vincent; Director of Community, Mr. Ladi Akande; Director of Information, Mr. Tope Obembe, Deputy Director, Community, Mr. Lateef Fafure; and Deputy Director, Information, Mr. Daniel Abe, among others.
The procession added colour and excitement to the opening ceremony, with participating councils showcasing the distinctive cultural identity of their people through traditional attire, music, dance and other forms of cultural expression.
EKIFEST, one of the state’s major annual cultural events, is designed to preserve, promote and project the rich cultural heritage of Ekiti, while creating a platform for younger generations to connect with the traditions and values of their forebears.
A rich line-up of competitions and cultural activities has been scheduled for the festival. These include traditional wrestling, traditional cuisine, female drummers’ competition and children’s essay writing, among several others.
The event has also drawn prominent personalities from the entertainment industry. Veteran Yoruba Nollywood actor Dele Odule was among the notable figures already on ground, adding further glamour and excitement to the cultural fiesta.
For Irewolede LCDA, its presence at EKIFEST 2026 represents more than participation in a state event. It is a demonstration of the council’s commitment to cultural preservation, community participation and the promotion of Ekiti’s shared identity.
Speaking through its participation, the council reinforced the importance of keeping Ekiti’s traditions alive while creating opportunities for unity, creativity and the discovery of emerging talents.
As the five-day festival unfolds, attention will shift to the various competitions, performances and cultural displays expected to showcase the best of Ekiti’s artistic talents and indigenous traditions.
With music, dance, cuisine, drama, traditional performances and exciting competitions on the programme, EKIFEST 2026 is set to be a colourful celebration of Ekiti’s past, a showcase of its present and a cultural bridge to its future.