OGBOMOSO CRADLES CARNIVAL 2025: Chairman ,Planning Committee Highlights Details Of Events.
AN ADDRESS DELIVERED BY HON. ODEBUNMI OLUSEGUN DOKUN, CHAIRMAN, PLANNING COMMITTEE, OGBOMOSO CRADLES CARNIVAL, AT THE PRESS CONFERENCE HIGHLIGHTING THE 2ND EDITION OF THE OGBOMOSO CRADLES CARNIVAL, HELD ON FRIDAY, 17TH OCTOBER, 2025, AT THE PALACE OF THE SOUN OF OGBOMOSO
His Imperial Majesty, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, Orumogege III, the Soun of Ogbomosoland,
ALL Royal Majesty accross the five LGAC in Ogbomosoland.
Traditional Chiefs,
Honourable Commissioner for Information and Civic Orientation,
Honourable Commissioner for Culture and Tourism,
Representatives of Federal and State Government Agencies,
Festival Partners and Sponsors,
Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,
Members of the Press,
I sincerely welcome you all to the historic palace of our visionary traditional ruler, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, Orumogege III, the Soun of Ogbomosoland, for this press conference highlighting the second edition of the Ogbomoso Cradles Carnival, scheduled to hold from December 18 to 22, 2025.
The Ogbomoso Cradles Carnival is one of the flagship initiatives under the 25-year Development Agenda of His Imperial Majesty. It was conceived with a noble vision — to promote our rich cultural heritage and traditions, foster unity and pride among the people of Ogbomosoland, and project to the world the uniqueness and vibrancy of our culture.
The wind of development have echoed acrross Ogbomosoland therefore the great men and women of Ogbomoso land must rise and reclaim her dignity.
There is no doubt that the maiden edition of the carnival was a resounding success — a true cultural renaissance that resonated far beyond Ogbomosoland. Its impact inspired many other communities across the land, further affirming our well-deserved reputation as the Pace Setters of Oyo State.
Last year, we recorded an inflow of over 10,000 visitors, including indigenes from the diaspora who came home purposely because of the carnival. Many of them have since expressed their eagerness to return — this time bringing along friends and family members to partake in the celebration and funfair. As you all know Canival is not just a celebration it’s a dance of emotions where evert step expresses the unspoken language of joy.
Beyond the positive economic impact, one of the remarkable achievements of last year’s edition was the establishment of a campus of the Nigerian Academy for Cultural Studies (NACUS) — a specialized monotechnic powered by the National Institute for Cultural Orientation (NICO) under the Federal Government. The carnival was also enlisted in the official calendar of the Oyo State Government and Federal Government, with sponsorships from MTN Nigeria, other corporate brands, and private individuals.
Before delving into details of the upcoming celebration, permit me to extend my heartfelt appreciation to His Imperial Majesty, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, Orumogege III, our royal fathers, traditional chiefs, Baales, key stakeholders, sponsors, and members of the organizing committee under the chairmanship of Prince Williams Adeleye, Dr. Oladejo Akanni, Chief Gbite Adegoke, Bashorun Akinwale Akinwole, Prince Dotun Oyelade, Hon. Wasiu Olatubosun, Honourable Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, and many others whose dedication, creativity, and determination in delivering a successful maiden edition have created a strong foundation upon which we proudly build today.
OUTLOOK FOR THE 2025 EDITION
This year’s edition promises to be even more exciting, colorful, and memorable.
We are introducing new activities and innovations to enrich the experience for our people and visitors alike, while consolidating the strong foundation laid during the first edition.
This is not just a continuation — it is a consolidation and expansion of our shared vision to position Ogbomosoland as a cultural beacon and tourism destination in Nigeria and beyond.
As the saying goes, “Rome was not built in a day.” and while challenges persist hope remains our greatest currency ”
We are gradually moving towards global recognition, and we strongly believe that in no distant time, the Ogbomoso Cradles Carnival will stand shoulder to shoulder with the world’s most popular cultural festivals, making a significant impact not just on the economy of Ogbomosoland and our self-esteem as a people, but also on Oyo State and Nigeria at large.
PROGRAMME OUTLINE
The 2025 edition will feature Pre-Carnival, Main Carnival, and Post-Carnival events.
Pre-Carnival Events
Under the leadership of Mr. Banji Ojo, the Pre-Carnival Committee has outlined a rich lineup of activities to build anticipation and excitement across the community. These include:
Talent Hunt — to showcase and reward young talents in music, comedy, and traditional chants.
Omidan Ogbomoso (Beauty Pageant) — to crown the cultural ambassador of Ogbomosoland.
Arts and Crafts Exhibition — from
December 18th to 22th, featuring indigenous artistry and creativity.
Oba Ghandi Golf Tournament
— on December 19th at the Ogbomoso Recreation Club.
Orumogege Ayo Olopon and Draught Competition — on December 20th at the same venue.
Other sporting and youth engagement events include the Oba Ghandi Annual Football Competion , Tennis Tournament and a Marathon Race — all designed to promote fitness, teamwork, and community spirit ahead of the grand celebration.
Main Carnival Events (Decembe22, 2025)
A series of vibrant activities have been lined up for the main carnival period:
Day One: Thursday, December 18, 2025
Venue: Soun Ogunlola Hall, Arena
Time: 10:00 a.m.
Activities:
Arrival of guests and government officials
Display of local cuisines at the Palace
Welcome Speech by the Chairman, Culture & Tourism Committee
Address by His Imperial Majesty, The Soun of Ogbomosoland
Traditional performances (Bata dances, singing, acrobatics)
Musical entertainment
Day Two: Friday, December 19, 2025
Venue: Aafin, Ogbomoso
Time: From 10:00 a.m.
Activities:
Conferment of traditional/honorary chieftaincy titles — 10:00 a.m.
Jumaat prayers — 1:00 p.m.
Odun Oole Festival — 3:00 p.m.
Musical entertainment
Day Three: Saturday, December 20, 2025
Venues: Ogbomoso Recreation Club & Ogbomoso Palace
Activities:
Oba Ghandi Golf Tournament
Grand Finale of all contests
Musical entertainment
Day Four: Sunday, December 21, 2025
Venues: Beulah Baptist Centre & Ogbomoso Palace
Activities:
Thanksgiving Service
Award Night
Day Five: Monday, December 22, 2025
Activities:
Official Closing by His Excellency, Engr. Seyi Makinde, Executive Governor of Oyo State
Cultural Displays from the Five Local Government Areas (LGAs)
Musical Performances
Homage Paying to the Soun of Ogbomosoland
Participation by Clubs, Associations, and Groups
The Grand Finale will be graced by eminent dignitaries, including:
His Excellency, Engineer Oluseyi Makinde, Executive Governor of Oyo State
The Minister of Culture and Tourism
Heads of MDAs at State and Federal levels
Captains of Industry, Eminent Scholars, and Renowned Arts and Culture Aficionados
SECURITY AND HOSPITALITY
Our Security Committee, composed of serving and retired experts, has mapped out an enhanced strategy to ensure a safe and peaceful celebration.
Private guards and surveillance teams will also be deployed to maintain order throughout the festival.
The Hospitality and Accommodation Committee has ensured that hotels, restaurants, and event facilities across Ogbomoso are secure, functional, and ready to provide visitors with maximum comfort and satisfaction.
CONCLUSION
As we prepare for this grand celebration, I appeal to all sons and daughters of Ogbomosoland, both at home and in the diaspora, to actively participate and support this glorious event.
Helen Keller said and I qoute “Alone we can do little, together we can do so much”
Together, under the inspiring leadership of His Imperial Majesty, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, Orumogege III, we are not only celebrating our heritage — we are laying the groundwork for sustainable development, unity, and global recognition of our beloved Ogbomosoland.
Therefore, let’s come together to rewrite our story with courage and conviction.
Thank you for your attention.
Long live Ogbomosoland!
Long live Oyo State!
Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria!
Hon. Segun Dokun Odebunmi
Chairman, Planning Committee, Ogbomoso Cradles Carnival 2025
