2026 Ogbomoso Cradles Carnival to begin Dec 17, Gran Fondo, marathon race, cultural displays, book launch, Ajilete Festival to highlight event
Niyi AJALA
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The third edition of the Ogbomoso Cradles Carnival will hold from December 17 to 21, 2026, with a five-day programme featuring cultural displays, sporting competitions, traditional ceremonies, exhibitions, entertainment and other activities aimed at promoting Ogbomoso’s heritage and tourism potential.
The chairman of the Central Planning Committee, Hon. Olusegun Odebunmi, announced the dates and unveiled the programme of events at a world press conference held on Tuesday, November 3, at the palace of the Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, Orumogege III.
Hon. Odebunmi said the third edition marked another stage in the effort to celebrate Ogbomoso’s identity, promote unity, empower young people and showcase the town as a destination for culture and tourism.
He explained that the carnival was conceived by the Soun as part of his 25-Year Development Agenda, providing a platform to celebrate the history, traditions and cultural assets of Ogbomosoland while attracting visitors, encouraging investment and creating opportunities for residents.
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According to him, the carnival had gradually grown from an initiative to bring Ogbomoso people together into an annual December event that residents and visitors could look forward to.
Five-day programme begins with cycling, cultural displays
Unveiling the programme, the committee chairman disclosed that activities would begin on Thursday, December 17, with the Carnival Cycling event, also known as Gran Fondo, scheduled to take off from the Ogbomoso Palace at 6:00 a.m. along the Iseyin–Ogbomoso route.
Other activities on the opening day include the arrival of guests and an exhibition of local cuisine, arts and crafts at the palace by 9:00 a.m., followed by the opening ceremony at the Ogunlola Arena at 10:00 a.m.
Traditional hunters’ displays, Bata acrobatic dances, Ijala and Egungun performances will also feature, while musical entertainment is scheduled for 6:00 p.m. at the palace.
The second day, Friday, December 18, will feature special Islamic prayers at 9:00 a.m., installation of chieftaincy titles at 10:00 a.m., Jumat service at 1:00 p.m. and Odun Oole at 4:00 p.m. Musical entertainment will follow at 6:00 p.m.
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Marathon, golf tournament, indoor games feature
Saturday, December 19, will be devoted largely to sporting activities, including the Ogbomoso Marathon Race, scheduled for 7:00 a.m. at Ogbomoso High School.
The Oba Ghandi Golf Tournament will tee off at 9:00 a.m. at the Ogbomoso Recreation Club, alongside indoor games such as chess, Scrabble, Ayo Olopon and table tennis.
The grand finale of the pre-carnival contests will hold at the palace by 4:00 p.m., followed by musical entertainment at 6:00 p.m.
On Sunday, December 20, activities will include the third-year coronation thanksgiving service of the Soun at 12 noon at the Ogbomoso Palace Arena and a book launch and public presentation at 2:00 p.m.
A sensitisation and training programme for persons with autism is also scheduled for 2:00 p.m. at Oladunni Hall, while the musical concert and award night will take place at 4:00 p.m. at the palace.
The carnival will end on Monday, December 21, with Ajilete Day at the Soun Stadium.
The day’s programme includes the arrival of guests, clubs and associations from 9:00 a.m., followed by Ajilete Day activities at 11:00 a.m. The programme also provides for the arrival of the Oyo state governor and traditional homage-paying by various groups, clubs and associations to the Soun.
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Committee seeks wider participation, partnership
Speaking on the objectives of the carnival, Hon. Odebunmi said the event was designed to provide an opportunity for Ogbomoso to present its history, traditions, local cuisine, hospitality and creative talents to a wider audience.
He noted that the 2026 edition would combine cultural performances and entertainment with sporting events, exhibitions and intellectual engagements to make the five-day celebration meaningful to residents and visitors.
The chairman acknowledged the support of the Oyo state government, the federal government, relevant ministries and agencies, corporate sponsors and individuals who had identified with the carnival since its inception.
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He, however, called for greater participation by corporate organisations, private investors and other stakeholders, describing the carnival as an opportunity for businesses to connect with the community, promote their brands and contribute to the development of Ogbomoso.
He also appealed to sons and daughters of Ogbomosoland living within Nigeria and in the diaspora to return home for the celebration and participate in preserving and promoting their cultural heritage.
According to him, the carnival offers an opportunity for indigenes to reconnect with their roots, families and communities, regardless of where they reside.
Security, hospitality preparations underway
The Central Planning Committee also acknowledged the support of the federal and Oyo state governments towards strengthening the security arrangements in Ogbomosoland.
Hon. Odebunmi said the committee was engaging hospitality operators, hotels, restaurants, transport providers and other service providers to prepare for the expected influx of visitors during the celebration.
He expressed confidence that the preparations would contribute to a memorable experience for residents and guests throughout the five days.
The chairman further appreciated the Soun for his vision and commitment to the cultural advancement of Ogbomosoland, while acknowledging the support of the Oyo State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Wasiu Olatubosun, whom he described as instrumental to the success of the previous editions.
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He said the committee was committed to building on the achievements of the first two editions and ensuring that the carnival became a lasting cultural and tourism legacy for Ogbomoso.
Hon. Odebunmi urged all stakeholders to support the 2026 edition, stressing that the continued growth of the carnival depended on the collective commitment of government, traditional institutions, businesses and the people of Ogbomosoland.
