Oyo Empire Day Celebration Set for December 2026

The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, has announced the inaugural Oyo Empire Day Celebration, set to take place from December 17 to December 19, 2026. This three-day event aims to unify all descendants of Oyo ancestry worldwide, encouraging collaboration among stakeholders to ensure its success.

In a statement released by his Director of Media and Publicity, Bode Durojaiye, the Alaafin emphasized the celebration's purpose: to strengthen cultural awareness, promote historical research, enhance tourism and investment, and inspire younger generations to preserve the legacy of the Oyo Empire. He stated that Oyo Empire Day is a celebration of the common ancestry and cultural heritage of the entire Oyo-speaking people.

To facilitate inclusiveness, a Planning Committee has been formed, comprising academics, professionals, business leaders, and representatives from various states and the Republic of Benin. The committee will be formally unveiled at its inauguration, with the Alaafin expressing confidence in the nominees' capabilities and commitment to the initiative.