The Initiator and Coordinator of the Ikorodu-Oga Fanti Carnival, Comrade Pelumi Olalekan Rado, has unveiled a comprehensive vision for the 2026 edition of the carnival, outlining key initiatives aimed at elevating the cultural festival into an internationally recognised tourism and heritage event.

Speaking during the general meeting of the Ikorodu-Oga Fanti Carnival Committee, Rado disclosed that preparations for the 2026 edition had been concluded, with detailed plans already documented to ensure a seamless and successful celebration. He said the planning committee had worked tirelessly over the past several months to deliver an edition that would further showcase the rich cultural heritage of Ikorodu Kingdom while attracting wider local and international attention.

According to him, one of the major decisions for the forthcoming edition is the adoption of the Ikorodu Ultra Modern Town Hall as the official venue for the carnival. He also revealed that distinguished national personalities, international dignitaries, cultural enthusiasts and foreign observers would be invited to witness what he described as the rebirth of one of Ikorodu’s most promising cultural festivals.

Rado further announced that the Ikorodu-Oga Development Association (IKODASS) has formally integrated the Fanti Carnival into its constitution through the ongoing constitutional amendment process. As part of the reforms, the association has created the office of Special Adviser on Fanti Affairs and introduced a dedicated by-law to regulate the administration, organisation and continuity of the carnival, ensuring its sustainability for generations to come.

To strengthen grassroots participation, he explained that each of the three indigenous quarters—Aga, Ijomu and Isele—would be divided into seven or eight operational zones to enhance mobilisation and ensure that every section of the community is actively involved in the planning and execution of the carnival. He also disclosed that IKODASS has approved take-off funds, to be released through the Fanti Carnival Committee, to support each quarter as preparations commence.

Describing the carnival as more than a cultural celebration, Rado said the initiative is a strategic platform to preserve Ikorodu’s cultural heritage, promote tourism, stimulate economic development and showcase the creativity and traditions of the people of Ikorodu Kingdom to the world. He urged sons and daughters of Ikorodu, both at home and in the diaspora, to actively participate in the activities of their respective quarters to ensure the success of the 2026 edition.

The meeting also featured the presentation of Awards of Appreciation to individuals from the three participating Fanti Carnival groups in recognition of their outstanding contributions to the success of the previous edition.

Honoured from the Ijomu Parapo Fanti Carnival Group were Comrade Akinfolarin Ayanilowo (Chairman), Captain Ibrahim Ajibade Lawal (Captain) and Comrade Ishau Oriyomi Onibudo (Treasurer).

From the Isele Alaro United Fanti Carnival Group, the awardees were Mr. Sulaimon Olalekan Dalemo-Sanda (Chairman), Alhaji Yusuf Sholesi (Marshal) and Alhaji Raji Olamilekan Kareem (Committee Member).

The Aga Parapo Fanti Carnival Group honoured Alhaji Jamiu Odutayo Inabiri (Chairman), Hon. Prince Ibrahim A. O. Akanni (General Secretary) and Mrs. Aladejobi Ifetayo Felicia (Woman Leader) for their dedication and commitment to the growth of the carnival.

In his remarks, the Chairman of IKODASS, Alhaji Fatai Kolawole, unveiled several initiatives designed to encourage greater community participation in the annual Ikorodu-Oga celebrations. He announced that registration with IKODASS would remain free, while the Miss Ikorodu-Oga pageant would feature five contestants each from the Aga, Ijomu and Isele quarters, with contestants representing their respective areas.

Kolawole also announced scholarship opportunities under the Ikorodu-Oga initiative, including the provision of free JAMB forms for beneficiaries. He further revealed that competitions would be organised among the three quarters, with winners to be determined by the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture.

He added that members of the Fanti Carnival Committee would be represented at IKODASS Executive Council meetings, confirmed that the 2026 Ikorodu-Oga Fanti Carnival would be held at the Ikorodu Ultra Modern Town Hall, and disclosed that the IKODASS bus would be available for hire to support community activities.

Stakeholders at the meeting commended Comrade Pelumi Olalekan Rado for his visionary leadership and commitment to preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of Ikorodu Kingdom, expressing confidence that the 2026 Ikorodu-Oga Fanti Carnival would set a new standard for cultural festivals in Lagos State and beyond.