The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, Arusa I, has accepted to serve as the Royal Father and Chairman of the 2026 World Egungun Festival, pledging his full support for the cultural programme as Oyo State intensifies preparations for the globally recognised event.
The Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatubosun, made this known on Tuesday during a courtesy visit to the monarch at his residence in Ibadan, where the Ministry’s management team formally invited him to chair the festival.
Olatubosun said the visit was also to appreciate the Olubadan’s consistent support for the Ministry’s programmes, even before his ascension to the throne, describing the monarch as a strong cultural ambassador whose influence would further elevate the festival’s prestige.
He disclosed that significant improvements have been made ahead of the 2026 edition to address concerns raised by the Olubadan during the 2025 festival, particularly regarding visibility and convenience for VIP guests.
The Commissioner revealed that no fewer than 200 masquerades are expected from within and outside Nigeria, with about 10 countries and over 100 groups and associations already indicating interest to participate in the festival in their colourful uniforms.
He also disclosed that the Honourable Minister of Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, has pledged attendance at the 2026 festival.
“We want Ibadan to become a major tourist destination and a cultural hub that the world will continually reckon with,” Olatubosun stated.
In his response, the Olubadan accepted the invitation and assured the delegation of his presence and support for the programme.
Meanwhile, as part of broader preparations for the festival, the Oyo State Government through the Ministry of Culture and Tourism also held a strategic meeting with leaders and key members of the Ijo Oje Parapo Welfare Association across various local government areas in the state.
The meeting, held at the Town Hall in the palace of the Akibio of Ilora, was aimed at strengthening collaboration and consolidating preparations for the 2026 World Egungun Festival, while addressing concerns raised after previous engagements.
Speaking at the meeting, Dr. Olatubosun explained that the renewed prominence of the Egungun Festival has continued to attract international attention, including Brazil, as the diaspora reconnects with the authentic custodians of the tradition in Oyo State.
He expressed optimism that with sustained efforts and proper packaging, the festival could secure UNESCO recognition within the next six years.
“We want to promote the entertainment and tourism potential of the festival to the world, but it is important that we take ownership of it and preserve its authenticity,” he said.
Also speaking, the Acting General Manager of the Oyo State Council for Arts and Culture, Mr. S.A. Agboola, appreciated the elders and members of the association for their cooperation, particularly during the 2025 edition which he described as mutually beneficial.
Agboola stressed the cultural and spiritual significance of the Egungun Festival, noting that Egungun stands prominently alongside Sango in traditional worship and community participation.
“You may not yet fully realise the value of the World Egungun Festival, but it stands out since its take-off in 2024 and has become a unifying traditional festival,” he said.
He added that the Ministry has been deliberate in reshaping misconceptions previously associated with the festival, particularly concerns about disorder and insecurity, assuring stakeholders that the issues raised at earlier meetings would be addressed.
Members of the Ijo Oje Parapo Association who spoke at the meeting emphasised the need for cleanliness, discipline and proper presentation of masquerades, while appealing for a more organised environment for the 2026 edition.
They also requested representation on the festival planning committee, which was approved.
The Commissioner further advised the association to organise a formidable youth body under the National Council for Isese Youth Organisation to ensure sustainability and structured participation of younger generations.
