Ekiti Governor Aims to Boost Tourism with EKIFEST 2026

Ekiti State Governor Mr Biodun Oyebanji announced plans to establish Ekiti as a major hub for cultural tourism and the creative economy. He made this commitment while represented by Deputy Governor Mrs Monisade Afuye at the launch of the 2026 Ekiti State Festival of Arts and Culture (EKIFEST) on Tuesday in Ado Ekiti.

The festival, themed “Continuity, The Pathway to Ensuring Prosperity,” is set to take place from August 11 to 15. Oyebanji emphasized the importance of creativity and talent development in creating jobs and businesses, urging Ekiti youths to leverage their skills for economic growth.

He outlined the government's vision to enhance infrastructure, support local artists, and create an environment conducive to cultural contributions to the economy. The Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Prof.

Rasak Bakare, praised Oyebanji's investment in arts and culture, highlighting EKIFEST as a celebration of Ekiti's unique cultural heritage.