The Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) has outlined activities for the 2026 Ibadan Cultural Festival, reaffirming its commitment to promoting the city’s cultural heritage and unity among its people.
The announcement was made on Wednesday during a press conference held at Ibadan House, Oke-Aremo.
Addressing journalists, the President-General of CCII, Barrister Sulaimon Ajeniyi Ajewole, said the cultural festival, which dates back to the council’s establishment in 1982, remains an annual event dedicated to celebrating Ibadan’s heritage.
He explained that the festival evolved from earlier celebrations known as Ibadan Day and Ibadan Week into what is now the Ibadan Cultural Festival.
Ajewole noted that the festival is designed to showcase the rich cultural heritage of Ibadan, strengthen relationships among over 200 affiliate clubs of the council across the world, and foster unity between indigenes and residents of Ibadanland.
He added that activities for the 2026 edition began with the Ibadan Conference on March 23, where critical issues concerning Ibadanland were discussed, alongside the launch of the Ibadan 4.0 initiative.
The CCII president-general also highlighted other programmes lined up for the festival, noting that each is aimed at promoting cultural values and community development.
On security, Ajewole assured that the council has partnered with relevant security agencies in Oyo State to guarantee the safety of participants throughout the festival.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the 2026 Ibadan Cultural Festival Committee, Mogaji Moshood Gbolagade Akere, said the committee has introduced new initiatives to enhance the vibrancy of this year’s event.
He also appreciated the main sponsor, First City Monument Bank (FCMB), for its support and commitment to the success of the festival.
Other CCII members present at the press conference included Vice President-General II, Comrade Sunday Amoo; Vice Chairman of the festival, Mrs Toyin Monsurat Balogun; Secretary-General, Alhaji Tokunbo Subair; Social Secretary, Alhaja Folasade Olayiwola; Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Dr Lasisi Balogun; and the festival secretary, Saheed Oyebamiji.
