The Ipakodo Day 2026 Planning Committee has unveiled the official Ankara fabric for this year’s celebration on Friday, 17th of July, and announced a lineup of new activities aimed at promoting and preserving the community’s rich cultural heritage.

The unveiling ceremony also featured the presentation of the programme itinerary for the annual festival, with organisers assuring residents and stakeholders of a bigger, more colourful and memorable celebration.

Speaking at the event, His Royal Majesty, Oba Bashiru Aremu Shotonwa, the Sekumade of Ipakodo, described the introduction of the Boat Regatta as a significant step towards preserving and celebrating the community’s cultural heritage.

The monarch noted that it is important to celebrate and preserve the community’s heritage through cultural activities.

Oba Shotonwa expressed optimism that the 2026 edition of Ipakodo Day would be another successful celebration, noting that every edition of the festival since its inception has continued to record positive achievements and stronger community participation.

Also speaking, the Chairman of the Ipakodo Day 2026 Planning Committee, Architect Jamiu Olanrewaju Alimi, congratulated His Royal Majesty on the official commencement of activities for the annual cultural celebration.

He explained that the unveiling marked the committee’s readiness to organise a well-coordinated and impactful festival, noting that expectations from the traditional ruler and the entire Ipakodo community remain high.

According to him, the committee is determined to surpass the achievements of previous editions and deliver a celebration that will further promote the community’s cultural heritage.

“We are committed to delivering a bigger, better and more robust celebration this year by the grace of God,” he said.

Architect Alimi appealed to the Lagos State Government, Ikorodu Local Government, corporate organisations, community associations and well-meaning individuals to support the committee, stressing that their contributions would be vital to the success of the celebration.

He announced that this year’s edition would feature the introduction of a Boat Regatta, a cultural display designed to showcase Ipakodo’s heritage and preserve its traditions for future generations.

“The Boat Regatta reflects who we are as a community. Through it, we are celebrating our heritage while inspiring and empowering our future,” he said.

Architect Alimi also called on sons and daughters of Ipakodo, both at home and in the diaspora, to support the planning committee and actively participate in the activities lined up for the celebration.

He expressed confidence that, with the support of all stakeholders, Ipakodo Day 2026 would be one of the most successful editions in the history of the annual festival.

Also speaking, Omoba Peju Akinyemi unveiled the programme of activities for the 2026 Ipakodo Day celebration, which includes the Woro Procession, Boat Regatta, Oloja Day, Transporters’ Day, Artisans’ Day, and several other cultural and community activities leading up to the grand finale.