The 24th Edition of Olokun World Festival Kicks Off in Badagry
Badagry is set to host one of the biggest cultural celebrations in Lagos State as the 24th edition of the Olokun World Festival takes place on October 19 and 20, 2026 at Kakanfo-Falola Beach.
What to Expect
The festival, promoted by the Olokun Festival Foundation (OFF) under the leadership of Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Abiodun Ige Adams, is expected to draw over 30 traditional rulers and more than 100,000 guests from across Nigeria and around the world.
Confirmed international participants include contingents from:
- Benin Republic
- Togo
- Ghana
- Côte d’Ivoire
- France
- United Kingdom
- Brazil
- United States
- Caribbean countries
Festival Schedule
Tuesday, October 13: Opening prayers at Oodua House, Ikeja by 11 a.m.
Saturday, October 17: Miss Olokun beauty pageant at 4 p.m. (Happening today!)
Monday, October 19 (Olosa Day): Boat regatta at 2 p.m., followed by a midnight prayer session at Kakanfo-Falola Beach
Tuesday, October 20: Grand finale at 11 a.m. showcasing the spiritual and cultural heritage of the Yoruba people
Prominent Dignitaries Expected
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Commissioner for Tourism Arts and Culture Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, the Regent of Badagry Huji Tose II Chief Ajose Oloyede, and the Royal Father of the Day Oba Olalekan Sejiro James Henwa (Ogungbe Okiki Arolagbade II, Aholu of Kweme Kingdom) are among the notable guests expected.
Members of the Oodua Peoples’ Congress (OPC) will also hold a special vigil in front of Olokun, offering prayers for Nigeria, Yorubaland, and Yoruba sons and daughters across the world.
Economic Impact
The foundation noted that the festival generates hundreds of millions of naira annually for the host community and Lagos State through tourism and related activities. Kakanfo-Falola Beach is being developed into a major tourism destination with proposed facilities including a hotel, conference hall, recreation centres, gym, Olympic-size swimming pool, mini stadium, and sports courts.
The Olokun World Festival remains one of Africa’s most significant cultural gatherings, promoting cultural pride, unity, and tourism while strengthening ties between Yoruba people and friends of Africa worldwide.
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