The Ekiti State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to using the creative economy as a catalyst for job creation and investment, with the 2026 Ekiti State Festival of Arts and Culture, themed “Continuity, Pathway to Enduring Shared Prosperity,” scheduled to hold from August 11 to 15.
The Ekiti State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to using arts and culture to create jobs, promote local talent and attract investments as part of efforts to diversify the state’s economy.
The Ekiti State Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Rasaki Bakare, said the state was already benefiting from its creative sector and the growing interest in the arts, culture and heritage of its people.
Bakare spoke in Ado-Ekiti ahead of the 2026 Ekiti State Festival of Arts and Culture, scheduled for August 11 to 15, with the theme, “Continuity, Pathway to Enduring Shared Prosperity.”
He described the festival as an investment in talent discovery, youth empowerment and the positioning of Ekiti as a hub of creative excellence.
According to him, the event would promote cultural identity, unity and innovation through competitions in traditional performances, arts, cuisine, indigenous games, wrestling and fashion.
He added that the programme would provide opportunities for artists and creatives to showcase their talents while helping to attract investment and boost economic diversification.
Bakare said the five-day event was expected to attract tourists, arts and culture enthusiasts and visitors from across Nigeria and beyond.
He disclosed that prominent Ekiti indigenes who had contributed to the development and promotion of arts and culture would be honoured.
Those expected to receive awards include the late Olowe of Ise, who will be honoured posthumously, Chief Ojo Olowojolu (Ojojolu), actors Odunlade Adekola and Peju Ogunmola, as well as arts supporters such as Senator Babafemi Ojudu and Dr Tope Agbeyo.
Expected dignitaries include the Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa; Director-General of the National Council for Arts and Culture, Obi Asika; and commissioners of Arts and Culture from across the country.
Governor Biodun Oyebanji, members of the State Executive Council and House of Assembly, local government leaders and traditional rulers are also expected at the events.
Activities scheduled for the festival include a command performance of “The Trial of Omoluwabi,” traditional wrestling, music and dance, children’s visual arts and essay competitions, traditional cuisine and bush bar, female drumming competition and an awards ceremony.
Bakare described the annual cultural celebration as a major platform for showcasing Ekiti’s heritage, creativity and cultural identity while creating economic opportunities for its people.
