The ancient city of Ogbomoso is once again set to witness a vibrant display of culture, unity, and festivity as the organizing committee has unveiled plans for the second edition of the Ogbomoso Cradles Carnival, scheduled to hold from December 18 to 22, 2025.
At a press conference held on Friday at the palace of the Soun of Ogbomosoland, the Chairman of the Planning Committee, Hon. Segun Dokun Odebunmi, described the carnival as a key initiative of His Imperial Majesty, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, Orumogege III, under his 25-year development agenda for Ogbomosoland.
Odebunmi noted that the carnival was conceived to celebrate Ogbomoso’s rich cultural heritage, foster unity among its people, and project the city’s identity to the world.
“The Ogbomoso Cradles Carnival is more than a cultural display. It is a vision — a platform to showcase our heritage, promote our identity, and restore the dignity of Ogbomosoland,” Odebunmi said.
Recalling the maiden edition held in 2024, which attracted over 10,000 visitors including indigenes in the diaspora, corporate sponsors, and tourists, Odebunmi said the event has become a model for cultural celebration in Oyo State.
According to him, the success of the first edition inspired similar initiatives across the state and led to the establishment of a campus of the Nigerian Academy for Cultural Studies (NACUS) in Ogbomoso. The event has also been listed in both the state and federal cultural calendars.
He assured that the 2025 edition will surpass the previous one in colour, creativity, and impact, with new additions aimed at enriching participants’ experience.
“This year’s pre-carnival activities are largely youth-focused. They are designed not just to showcase talent but to promote outstanding individuals to national and global platforms,” he added.
The Chairman of the Pre-Carnival Committee, Mr. Banji Ojo, revealed that areas not captured in the current lineup would be included in subsequent editions. He urged youths to seize the opportunities provided by the talent hunts and competitions, noting that exceptional performers would receive both cash and material rewards and gain exposure beyond Nigeria.
Similarly, the Secretary of the Committee, Mr. Muyiwa Oke, disclosed that over 50 clubs and associations have already registered to participate, with registration still open. He emphasized that the carnival would reflect the unity and vibrancy that define Ogbomosoland.
The 2025 edition will feature Pre-Carnival, Main Carnival, and Post-Carnival events, including:
Talent Hunt featuring music, comedy, and traditional performances
Omidan Ogbomoso Beauty Pageant to crown the cultural ambassador of Ogbomosoland
Arts and Crafts Exhibition (December 18–22)
Oba Ghandi Golf Tournament, Football, Tennis, Ayo Olopon, and Draught Competitions
Marathon Race
The Main Carnival will officially open on Thursday, December 18, at the Soun Ogunlola Hall, featuring cultural performances and speeches by dignitaries. The following days will include chieftaincy conferments, Jumaat prayers, the Odun Oole Festival, Golf Tournament, Award Night, and Musical Entertainment.
The grand finale, slated for Monday, December 22, will be graced by Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, who will perform the official closing ceremony, alongside cultural displays from the five local governments of Ogbomosoland.
Odebunmi assured that security measures have been fully put in place with experienced personnel handling surveillance and crowd management. He also noted that hotels and restaurants across the city are being prepared to host visitors comfortably.
The Chairman of the Media and Publicity Sub-Committee, Prince Dotun Oyelade, described the carnival as “programmed for success right from inception,” urging journalists and media houses to amplify its message of unity, cultural preservation, and economic growth.
In his closing remarks, Odebunmi called for collective support from indigenes and well-wishers of Ogbomoso:
“As Helen Keller said, ‘Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.’ Together, under the leadership of His Imperial Majesty, we are rewriting our story with courage and conviction.”
Since its inauguration in 2024, the Ogbomoso Cradles Carnival has become one of the most anticipated cultural festivals in Oyo State, attracting local and international attention for its blend of tradition, innovation, and community development.
