By Fidelis David, Akure
Akure, the Ondo State capital, is set to host a vibrant celebration of culture, tradition and community engagement as the maiden edition of CULFEST 1.1 holds on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at the Adegbemile Cultural Centre.
Convener of the festival, Yèyé Modupe O. Akerele, who also holds the traditional title of Yèyé Àṣà of Ìkàré Àkókó and is the Founder/Chief Executive Officer of Cultural House, said the event is designed to showcase the richness of indigenous heritage while creating a platform for cultural education and community development.
Speaking with journalists ahead of the festival, Akerele described CULFEST as more than a routine social gathering, noting that it represents a bold statement about identity, tradition and cultural pride.
“CULFEST is not just another gathering; it is a powerful celebration of heritage, creativity, fashion, rhythm and community,” she said.
According to her, the festival seeks to create a unique space where tradition meets modern expression and where people can reconnect with their cultural roots.
“It is a space where tradition meets expression and identity takes centre stage. Our goal is to promote, preserve and celebrate our rich cultural heritage while also engaging the community in meaningful ways,” she added.
Akerele explained that the festival which will start by 11am would feature a wide range of cultural and social activities aimed at showcasing indigenous traditions while also contributing to the well-being of the people.
She listed some of the highlights to include traditional dance performances, cultural lectures, goodwill messages from revered traditional rulers, cultural fashion displays, as well as medical outreach programmes.
She further disclosed that part of the humanitarian aspect of the festival would include the distribution of free eyeglasses to members of the community.
“The festival is not only about celebration; it is also about service to the community. We will have medical outreach programmes and distribute free eyeglasses to people who need them. Culture should also improve the quality of life of our people,” she said.
CULFEST 1.1 is expected to attract prominent traditional rulers and cultural leaders from across the state and beyond, reflecting the importance of the event in promoting indigenous identity and unity.
Among the royal fathers expected at the event are the Owa Ale Adimula of Ikare Akoko, Oba Adeleke Adefemi Adegbite-Adedoyin II; the Arujale Ojima of Okeluse, Oba Adeyeoba Oloyede Akinghare II; the Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye III; the Elemure of Emure, Oba Bankole Adeyefa II; and the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Odundun III.
The festival will also honour several individuals who have made notable contributions to the promotion and preservation of culture.
Recipients of the cultural recognition awards include Olamilekan Fabilola, popularly known as Masoyinbo; Ademola Olamide Seyifunmi, a Yoruba language scholar; Are Ọba Àṣà Àgbáyé; Bolanle Lebson Idanegbe, President of the Ondo State Ajumn; Engr. (Chief) Adesina V. Adeola, President of the Rufus Giwa Polytechnic Alumni Association; and cultural promoter, St. Duro, among others.
Akerele said the recognition is aimed at celebrating individuals who have consistently worked to sustain and promote cultural heritage within their communities.
She noted that CULFEST seeks to bring together traditional institutions, cultural practitioners, scholars and the general public in a shared effort to preserve indigenous traditions.
“CULFEST continues to stand as a vibrant gathering that unites traditional institutions, cultural practitioners, scholars and the wider community,” she said.
“It is about strengthening cultural pride, celebrating our identity and ensuring that our heritage is passed on to future generations.”
The festival, she added, is expected to attract cultural enthusiasts, scholars, artists and members of the public who share a passion for preserving and celebrating the cultural values of the people.
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