In a spectacular display of cultural renaissance, Governor Biodun Oyebanji has officially launched the 2026 Ekiti State Festival of Arts and Culture (EKIFEST), declaring his administration’s unwavering commitment to positioning the state as Nigeria’s premier cultural tourism destination and one of Africa’s leading creative hubs.
The colourful flag-off ceremony, held at the Fajuyi Pavilion in Ado Ekiti on Tuesday, witnessed thousands of contingents from all 16 Local Government Areas and Local Council Development Areas parading the state capital in a vibrant cultural carnival that captivated residents and visitors alike.
Speaking through his Deputy, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, Governor Oyebanji issued a clarion call to Ekiti youths, urging them to harness their creative talents as veritable instruments for job creation, wealth generation, and accelerated economic development.
“To our young people, this festival belongs to you. Your creativity is your wealth. Your ideas can create jobs. Your talents can build businesses. Your imagination can transform communities,” the Governor declared, emphasising that the creative economy is no longer a futuristic concept but a present reality.
In a thought-provoking address, Oyebanji stressed that true economic development extends far beyond infrastructure and road construction.
“The true measure of any society is not only in its roads and buildings, but also in how faithfully it preserves its heritage and how boldly it empowers its people,” he stated, challenging leaders to prioritise cultural preservation as a cornerstone of sustainable development.
Highlighting the significance of the fourth consecutive edition under his administration, the Governor described EKIFEST as a deliberate statement of his government’s commitment to cultural renaissance.
“Our vision is clear: we want Ekiti to become Nigeria’s foremost destination for cultural tourism and one of Africa’s leading creative hubs. We are building infrastructures, strengthening institutions, supporting our creative talents, expanding opportunities for young entrepreneurs, and creating an environment where culture contributes meaningfully to our economy,” Oyebanji affirmed.
In his remarks, Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Prof Rasak Ojo Bakare, lauded Governor Oyebanji as a trailblazer in cultural development, noting that the administration has made history by appointing a core professional as Director of Culture and a substantive Permanent Secretary in the ministry.
“Culture is far more than mere entertainment. It is a veritable opportunity to strengthen social cohesion, create hospitality, promote love, and ensure social order among our people,” Prof Bakare asserted.
The opening ceremony featured a star-studded performance by renowned Yoruba movie icon, Dele Odule, alongside his cultural troupe, while cultural groups from various Nigerian nationalities including Igbo, Ibibio, Idoma, Tiv, and Bassa communities showcased their rich traditions.
The event attracted a galaxy of dignitaries including Local Government Chairmen, Commissioners, Special Advisers, traditional rulers, academics, members of the Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria (PMAN), and cultural icons from across the federation.
With the theme “Continuity: The Pathway to Ensuring Prosperity,” the 2026 EKIFEST promises to be a watershed moment in Ekiti’s cultural evolution, featuring command performances, traditional competitions, and talent showcases designed to identify and celebrate the state’s diverse cultural heritage.
Governor Oyebanji reassured stakeholders of his administration’s continued support for local artists, exhibitors, and creative entrepreneurs through strategic patronage aimed at guaranteeing their survival and contributions to economic growth.
As Ekiti positions itself as Nigeria’s cultural heartbeat, all eyes are on the state’s bold march towards becoming Africa’s creative capital of choice.
