The Egbeda-Egga community in Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State is preparing to host its 2026 cultural homecoming from October 1 to 4. The event, organised by the Egbeda-Egga Development Union (EDU), has the theme: ‘Thriving on our heritage, building our future.’ The four-day celebration aims to promote unity, preserve the community’s heritage, and mobilise resources for development. This year’s event is expected to attract indigenes and well-wishers from across Nigeria and beyond.
The cultural homecoming will feature various activities, including cultural performances, medical outreach, charity activities, a grand carnival, traditional dances, and an awards ceremony. The event will also honour the memories of late Pa Jide Ojo (Oluganmo) and late Mr. Adeniyi Mesaiyete with posthumous awards. Dufil Prima Foods Limited and Nigerbev Nigeria Limited will receive outstanding corporate partners awards. Additionally, some individuals, including Senator Sunday Karimi and Mrs. Zacchaeus Aroniyo Timilehin, will receive special recognition awards.
The final ceremony will take place on October 3 at the Government Special Science Secondary School playground, Egbeda-Egga. Governor Usman Ododo will serve as the chief guest of honour, while Dr. Funsho Olumoko will chair the occasion. Honourable Leke Abejide will serve as the chief launcher. The Olujumu of Ijumu Kingdom, Oba Olusegun Ayeni, will be the royal father of the Day, with the Obaro of Egbeda-Egga, Oba Noah Olumide Obademi, as the royal host.
The celebration will begin on October 1 with a personality interview at Akogba FM, Ekinrin-Adde, followed by a central planning committee meeting. The programme for Friday will include a medical outreach, Jumu’at prayer, women’s charity outreach, a carnival procession, fireworks, cultural displays, and a welcome party. The celebration will conclude on October 4 with a thanksgiving service at St. Michael’s Anglican Church, Egbeda-Egga.
At the heart of the homecoming is the ₦800 million appeal fund, which the organisers hope will mobilise support from community members, corporate organisations, government institutions, and well-wishers. The Chairman of the central planning committee, Prince Mike Olanrewaju, has urged Egbeda-Egga indigenes to return home, reconnect with their roots, and support projects aimed at sustainable community development.
Some dignitaries expected at the event include Governor Usman Ododo, Honourable James Faleke, Senator Sunday Karimi, Honourable Leke Abejide, Honourable Funsho Olumoko, Dr. Folasade Arike Ayoade, and Salman Idris. The event will also feature the conferment of honorary chieftaincy titles on Prince Olatunji Olusoji and Honourable Toyin Omole in recognition of their contributions to the development of Egbeda-Egga.
The Egbeda-Egga community is counting on the success of the cultural homecoming to drive development and growth. With a range of activities and events planned, the community is optimistic about achieving its ₦800 million appeal fund target. The homecoming is expected to strengthen ties among community members and promote a sense of unity and shared purpose.
Key points
- The Egbeda-Egga community aims to raise ₦800 million for development at its 2026 cultural homecoming.
- The event will feature various activities, including cultural performances, medical outreach, and charity activities.
- The celebration will conclude with a thanksgiving service on October 4 at St. Michael’s Anglican Church, Egbeda-Egga.
