Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has unveiled plans to position the state as a major destination for cultural tourism and a leading creative economy hub in Nigeria and Africa.
Oyebanji disclosed this while declaring open the 2026 Ekiti State Festival of Arts and Culture (EKIFEST) in Ado Ekiti, stressing that the state’s cultural assets and the creativity of its young people could become major drivers of jobs, businesses and economic growth.
The governor, represented by his deputy, Monisade Afuye, said his administration was working to build infrastructure, strengthen relevant institutions and expand opportunities for creative entrepreneurs across the state.
“Our vision is clearwe want Ekiti to become Nigeria’s foremost destination for cultural tourism and one of Africa’s leading creative hubs,” Oyebanji said.
He said the government would continue to support local artists, art exhibitors and other players in the creative sector through patronage and other initiative, designed to improve their businesses and contribute to the state’s economy.
Oyebanji also urged young people to see their talents and creative abilities as economic assets, saying their ideas and skills could be transformed into businesses and employment opportunities.
The 2026 EKIFEST, themed “Continuity, The Pathway to Ensuring Prosperity,” is holding from August 11 to 15 and is expected to attract culture enthusiasts, creative entrepreneurs and tourism stakeholders to Ekiti.
The festival features cultural parades, traditional competitions, command performances and talent showcases aimed at promoting Ekiti’s heritage and giving local creatives a platform to display their talents.
Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Rasak Bakare, said the state was increasingly recognising arts and culture as an economic sector capable of generating employment and attracting investment.
Oyebanji said the festival would also contribute to strengthening the state’s economy, deepening unity and creating new opportunities for young people and businesses operating within the creative sector.
