Kayokayo Festival 2026 Begins in Epe Kingdom as Organisers Unveil Exciting Innovations, Rich Line-Up of Activities

Lagostrend report that the ancient Epe Kingdom officially commenced the 2026 edition of the annual Kayokayo Festival with a well-attended press conference, where the Mogaji Ngeri (Community Prime Minister), High Chief Adio Oduola, and the Festival Coordinator, Barrister Bayo Okulu, unveiled an impressive line-up of activities and fresh innovations designed to make this year’s celebration one of the most memorable in the festival’s history. The opening event, held at the residence of High Chief Adio Oduola, attracted members of the Olu Epe-In-Council, community leaders, festival committee members, and media representatives who gathered to receive details of the week-long cultural and religious celebration. Addressing journalists, High Chief Oduola described the Kayokayo Festival as a significant annual event that commemorates the arrival of the late King Kosoko in Epe in 1851, marks the Islamic Hijrah (New Year), celebrates the rich cultural heritage of the Epe Kingdom, and promotes unity among sons and daughters of the kingdom both at home and in the diaspora. He noted that the festival, which enjoys the endorsement and support of the Lagos State Government, has continued to serve as a platform for preserving the community’s cultural traditions, promoting Islamic values, and encouraging socio-economic development. High Chief Oduola called on residents and indigenes of Epe to participate actively in the various programmes while maintaining the peaceful atmosphere for which the festival is known. Barrister Bayo Okulu Speaking on behalf of the organising committee, Festival Coordinator Barrister Bayo Okulu expressed appreciation to all individuals, families, organisations, and partners who have consistently supported the festival over the years. He disclosed that the 2026 edition introduces several innovative activities aimed at enhancing public participation and making the celebration more colourful. Among the new additions is the ceremonial lighting of an Olympic-style torch, which will be taken around communities to officially herald the commencement of the festival and create widespread awareness. Barrister Okulu also announced the introduction of a grand Festival Train during the grand finale on Saturday, July 11, where families and community groups will showcase creative cultural displays in a colourful procession across the kingdom. As part of the committee’s commitment to promoting the well-being of residents, he said a free medical outreach would be organised on Sunday, July 5, to provide healthcare services to members of the community. Other major activities include the Qur’anic Competition at the First Epe Central Mosque, Oke-Balogun, the traditional visitation to homes by the Olu Epe-In-Council, and the ceremonial lighting of the Etufu, which will continue throughout the festival until the grand finale. Barrister Okulu further commended the Lagos State Government, the Kosoko Royal Family, corporate organisations, and members of the Epe community for their unwavering support towards the success of the annual celebration. He assured residents and visitors that adequate security arrangements had been put in place, revealing that all relevant security agencies had been duly notified to ensure the protection of lives and property throughout the festival. He also disclosed that transportation logistics for the grand finale have been significantly improved upon last year’s arrangements to guarantee a smooth and enjoyable experience for participants. The press conference was attended by several prominent traditional leaders, including High Chief Adeniyi Kadri Odedeogboro, High Chief Shobaloju, High Chief Tajudeen Ajiborisha, High Chief Isiaka Iyanda, Mogaji Abolaji Oshodi, Mogaji Agbaje, members of the Kayokayo Festival Committee, and other respected stakeholders of the Epe Kingdom. The 2026 Kayokayo Festival is expected to attract thousands of visitors from across Lagos State and beyond, reaffirming its position as one of Nigeria’s foremost cultural and religious festivals that continues to preserve history, strengthen communal unity, and showcase the rich cultural identity of the Epe Kingdom. See pictures below