By Idowu Adebomi
Ekiti State has taken a significant step toward transforming its rich cultural heritage into a viable economic asset with the official recognition of the Ita-Ajero Festival of Ijero-Ekiti as a major tourism event.
The festival was presented with a Certificate of Recognition by the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development in Ado-Ekiti on Thursday. This move is part of the state government’s broader strategy to elevate indigenous cultural festivals into globally competitive products capable of attracting international visitors and investment.
Presenting the certificate, the Director-General of the Bureau, Wale Ojo-Lanre, described the Ita-Ajero Festival as a strategic platform with immense potential to boost tourism traffic and stimulate the local economy. He explained that this recognition aligns with the vision of Governor Biodun Oyebanji to leverage the state’s cultural endowments as drivers of economic growth and job creation.
Ojo-Lanre noted that the festival reflects a deep historical tradition rooted in the political evolution of the Yoruba people. The Ita-Ajero tradition dates back several centuries to when prominent Yoruba monarchs would gather at the palace of the Ajero of Ijero to deliberate on matters affecting the Yoruba nation and reinforce unity among traditional institutions.
“This is not just a festival,” Ojo-Lanre said. “It is a reenactment of a historic convergence of kings, a symbol of unity, leadership, and cultural pride that reflects the enduring values of the Yoruba civilisation.”
The tourism chief disclosed that preparations are already underway for the 2026 edition, scheduled for August 21. The event is expected to attract no fewer than 45 traditional rulers from across Yorubaland and Nigeria, alongside cultural enthusiasts, researchers, and members of the Nigerian diaspora.
Speaking on behalf of the Ijero‑Ekiti community, Mrs. Fadeke Oguntuase stated that residents have begun preparations to stage a more elaborate and globally appealing edition. She commended the state government for its commitment to grassroots-driven tourism, noting that the partnership marks a new phase in preserving historical traditions while unlocking economic opportunities for the people of Ekiti.
