The Oba of Benin, Omo N’ Oba N’ Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II, has opened a food and craft festival in Benin City, Edo State. The festival, held at the Oba Akenzua Cultural Centre, brought together artisans, food vendors, fashion designers, and entertainment enthusiasts to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the Benin Kingdom. This event marks a significant milestone in the monarch's 10th coronation anniversary celebrations, which will be commemorated on October 20, 2026.
The monarch was represented at the opening ceremony by Chief Lucky Imasuen, Chairman of the Coronation Anniversary Committee and former Deputy Governor of Edo State. Chief Osaro Idah of the Obazelu N’ Iweguae group of Benin also attended the event. Following the opening ceremony, Imasuen and Idah inspected the various exhibition stands and interacted with vendors showcasing their products and services.
The festival featured a wide range of locally produced goods and creative enterprises, including handmade crafts, fashion designs, shoemaking, confectionery, and professional manicure and pedicure services. Food lovers were treated to traditional Benin delicacies and continental dishes, highlighting the diversity of the city’s culinary offerings.
The event included musical performances, royal art displays, and photographic exhibitions. Guests and palace functionaries used the opportunity to relax, socialize, and reflect on the monarch’s decade-long reign. The festival provided a platform for local artisans, entrepreneurs, and food vendors to display their skills, products, and services to a wider audience.
Beyond its festive atmosphere, the event underscored the role of cultural celebrations in preserving indigenous traditions and promoting local creativity. It also provided opportunities for small businesses to reach potential customers. The festival is part of activities commemorating Oba Ewuare II’s 10th coronation anniversary, reflecting the enduring significance of Benin’s cultural heritage.
The celebration marks a decade since Oba Ewuare II ascended the ancient throne of the Benin Kingdom in 2016. As preparations continue towards the anniversary on October 20, the food and craft festival offers residents and visitors an opportunity to engage with the kingdom’s artistic traditions, culinary heritage, and cultural identity.
The Oba of Benin’s 10th coronation anniversary celebrations will feature various activities, highlighting the kingdom's rich cultural heritage. The food and craft festival has set the tone for a grand celebration, showcasing the best of Benin’s art, culture, and traditions.
Key points
- The Oba of Benin, Ewuare II, has opened a food and craft festival in Benin City, Edo State, as part of his 10th coronation anniversary celebrations.
- The festival featured a wide range of locally produced goods and creative enterprises, including handmade crafts, fashion designs, and traditional Benin delicacies.
- The event provided a platform for local artisans, entrepreneurs, and food vendors to display their skills, products, and services to a wider audience.
