Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has unveiled the 2026 edition of the Ekiti State Festival of Arts and Culture (EKIFEST), reaffirming his administration’s plan to make the state a leading destination for cultural tourism and the creative economy.
Oyebanji, represented by his Deputy Governor, Monisade Afuye, spoke on Tuesday at the Fajuyi Pavilion, Ado-Ekiti, during the festival’s opening ceremony themed, “Continuity, The Pathway to Ensuring Prosperity.”
He urged Ekiti youths to turn their talents and creativity into businesses, jobs and opportunities, stressing that the creative economy is already a major driver of development.
“Your creativity is your wealth. Your ideas can create jobs. Your talents can build businesses. Your imagination can transform communities,” he said.
The governor said his administration would continue to support artists, creative entrepreneurs and cultural practitioners through investment, patronage and stronger institutions.
He added that economic development goes beyond roads and infrastructure, noting that preserving a people’s history and culture is equally important.
Oyebanji said the 2026 EKIFEST would strengthen the state’s economy, promote unity, attract investment and create opportunities for young people.
“Our vision is clear: we want Ekiti to become Nigeria’s foremost destination for cultural tourism and one of Africa’s leading creative hubs,” he said.
Ahead of the ceremony, thousands of participants from the state’s 16 local government areas and other communities staged a cultural parade through Ado-Ekiti.
The Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Prof. Rasak Ojo Bakare, commended the governor for investing in the sector.
He said EKIFEST would feature cultural parades, traditional competitions, command performances and talent showcases.
The opening ceremony also featured a performance by veteran Yoruba actor Dele Odule and his cultural troupe.
Traditional rulers, government officials, academics, cultural practitioners and representatives of various ethnic groups attended the event.
