Ogbomoso set for five-day cultural fiesta as organisers unveil 2026 Cradles Carnival programme
pannigeriannews
3 min read
The 2026 edition of the Ogbomoso Cradles Carnival will feature a blend of cultural displays, sporting competitions, entertainment and social inclusion activities as organisers unveil a five-day programme designed to promote the town’s cultural heritage and tourism potential.
The third edition of the carnival, which will run from December 17 to 21, will feature cycling, marathon, golf tournament, traditional performances, musical entertainment, exhibitions and a sensitisation/ training programme for persons with autism.
Chairman of the Central Planning Committee, Hon. Olusegun Odebunmi, disclosed this on Tuesday during a world press conference at the palace of the Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, Orumogege III, where he unveiled the programme of events for the 2026 celebration.
According to him, the carnival, which was conceived as part of the Soun’s 25-year development agenda, is aimed at celebrating Ogbomoso’s history, culture and traditions while attracting visitors, encouraging investment and creating opportunities for residents.
One of the major highlights of the opening day on December 17 will be the carnival cycling event, tagged Gran Fondo, from Iseyin to Ogbomoso, alongside an exhibition of local cuisine, arts and crafts, traditional hunters’ displays, Bata acrobatic dances, Ijala and Egungun performances.
The sporting activities will continue on Saturday, December 19, with the Ogbomoso Marathon Race, Oba Ghandi Golf Tournament and indoor games, including chess, scrabble, Ayo Olopon and table tennis.
The programme will also feature a sensitisation and training session for persons with autism on Sunday, December 20, alongside the Soun’s third coronation anniversary thanksgiving service, book launch, musical concert and award night.
The final day, Monday, December 21, designated as Ajilete Day, will take place at the Soun Stadium and feature the arrival of the Oyo State Governor, traditional homage-paying by various groups, clubs and associations, and the closing ceremony.
Speaking on the significance of the annual celebration, Odebunmi said the carnival had gradually developed into an important event that provides an opportunity to showcase Ogbomoso’s rich cultural heritage, unique local dishes, traditions and hospitality to the world.
He expressed optimism that the event would make December a special period for the community, attracting people from different parts of Nigeria and the diaspora to reconnect with their roots.
Odebunmi also called on corporate organisations, private investors, businesses and well-meaning individuals to partner with the organisers, describing the carnival as an opportunity to promote brands, connect with the community and contribute to the development of Ogbomoso.
On security and hospitality, Odebunmi appreciated the Federal and Oyo State governments for their responses towards strengthening the security architecture in Ogbomoso, adding that the committee was engaging hotels, restaurants, transport operators and other service providers to prepare for the expected influx of visitors.
He urged sons and daughters of Ogbomoso, both at home and in the Diaspora, to identify with the carnival and contribute to preserving and promoting the community’s cultural heritage.
It is recalled that the Ogbomoso Cradles Carnival was initiated by the Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, as part of his 25-year development agenda to use the town’s cultural heritage as a platform for tourism promotion, unity and economic development.
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