By Mashe Umaru Gwamna
The Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA) has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting and promoting the 2026 Igogo Festival, a more than 600-year-old cultural celebration held annually in Owo, Ondo State.
The Authority said its continued support for the festival is part of efforts to develop, promote and market Nigeria’s tourism assets, while strengthening community-based cultural events that preserve the nation’s heritage, promote national identity and stimulate tourism-driven economic growth.
The Igogo Festival, dedicated to the memory of Queen Oronsen, is renowned for its sacred rites, royal processions and colourful community celebrations. The centuries-old festival remains one of Nigeria’s notable examples of living cultural heritage and an important tourism attraction in Ondo State.
As part of its support for the 2026 edition, the NTDA will enhance the festival’s visibility through publicity materials, social media campaigns and advisory services aimed at promoting the event to a wider audience.
The 2026 Igogo Festival is scheduled to hold from August 31 to September 26 in Owo, with a programme featuring traditional ceremonies, cultural displays, games and pageants.
The NTDA said its partnership with cultural communities such as Owo would help position Nigeria’s diverse festivals as viable tourism products capable of attracting visitors, creating opportunities for local businesses and contributing to the growth of the country’s tourism economy.
Never miss a moment! Get the stories shaping Nigeria, delivered straight to your phone. Follow Peoplesdaily Newspaper on WhatsApp for breaking news, exclusive reports, and the headlines everyone will be talking about, before anyone else.
