New Era Foundation Announces 2026 Olokun Festival in Lagos

The New Era Foundation for Yoruba Festival and Culture Intervention has announced plans for the 2026 Olokun Festival, scheduled to hold on Tuesday, 25 August 2026, at Debojo Beach, Eleko, Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos.

President of OPC New Era, Comrade Rasak Arogundade, said the festival would feature a variety of cultural activities and attract prominent traditional rulers, government officials, cultural enthusiasts and other distinguished guests.

Arogundade disclosed that the Guest Lecturer for the occasion would be the Oyo State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Wasiu Olatunbosun.

He said Oba Olayemi Luman Arowolo (Arole Oguntimileyin I), Gbadewolu of Araromi Kingdom, would serve as the Royal Father of the Day, while Oba Babatunde Akanni Sonala (Ilufemiloye I), Olu of Makogi Kingdom, would be the Royal Guest of Honour.

He further announced that the Iyalode Oodua OPC New Era, Chief Mrs Olabosipo Olaseinde, would serve as the Spiritual Mother of the Day.

The Onidebojo of Debojo Kingdom, Oba Ajibola Talabi Odugbesan (Gbadegesin II), will host the celebration as the Royal Host.

According to Arogundade, the festival will also feature live musical performances by Alhaji Adebisi Akande, popularly known as Taye Currency.

He called on members of OPC New Era, Yoruba cultural groups and members of the public to turn out in large numbers to participate in the celebration.

Arogundade emphasised that the festival was aimed at promoting, preserving and showcasing Yoruba culture and traditions, while bringing people together in an atmosphere of unity and cultural pride.

He also assured guests and participants that comprehensive security arrangements had been put in place to ensure a peaceful and successful event.

The 2026 Olokun Festival is expected to bring together traditional institutions, government representatives, cultural stakeholders and members of the public for a colourful celebration of Yoruba heritage.