NIGERIA: 2025 Ogbomoso Cradles Carnival Holds From 18th To 22nd December 

By Azeez Balogun, Oyo Nigeria

The 2025 edition of the Ogbomoso Cradles Carnival will take place from December 18 to 22.

The chairman of the planning committee, Hon. Segun Dokun Odebunmi disclosed this during a press conference held at the palace of the Soun of Ogbomosho land.

He described the carnival as one of the flagship initiatives of His Imperial Majesty, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, Orumogege III, under the monarch’s 25-year development agenda for Ogbomosho land.

According to Odebunmi, the carnival was created to promote Ogbomoso’s rich cultural heritage, foster unity among its people, and showcase the city’s uniqueness to the world.

He stated, “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 dignityOgbomosho land.”

He recalled that the inaugural edition in 2024 attracted over 10,000 visitors, including indigenes from the diaspora, corporate sponsors, and tourists, noting that the event has become a model for cultural celebrations in Oyo State.

“Last year’s success inspired several communities across Oyo State. It also led to the establishment of a campus of the Nigerian Academy for Cultural Studies (NACUS) and its inclusion in both the state and federal cultural calendars,” Odebunmi added.

He expressed hope that the 2025 edition would surpass the previous one in terms of colour, creativity, and impact, mentioning that new activities and innovations have been introduced to enhance participants’ experiences.

This year’s pre-carnival activities will be largely youth-focused, designed not only to showcase talent but also to elevate outstanding individuals on national and global stages.

Mr. Banji Ojo, the chairman of the pre-carnival committee, stated that areas not yet included in the current lineup would be addressed in future editions and encouraged young people to seize the opportunity to showcase their gifts through talent hunts and other activities.

He mentioned that, in addition to cash and material rewards, those who excelled would be promoted to national and global levels.

Mr. Muyiwa Oke, the secretary of the committee, reported that over 50 clubs and associations have registered to participate with registration still open for other interested groups.

He assured that the carnival would reflect the unity and vibrancy that characterize Ogbomosoland.

The 2025 carnival will include Pre-Carnival, Main Carnival, and Post-Carnival events.

Key highlights will feature talent Hunt showcasing music, comedy, and traditional performances; Omidan Ogbomoso Beauty Pageant, crowning the cultural ambassador of Ogbomosoland; Arts and Crafts Exhibition (December 18–22); Oba Ghandi Golf Tournament, Football Competition, Tennis Tournament, Ayo Olopon and Draught Competitions, and a Marathon Race.

Hon. Odebunmi assured that comprehensive security measures have been implemented, with both serving and retired experts managing surveillance and crowd control.

He also mentioned that hotels and restaurants across the city have been well-prepared to ensure comfort and safety for visitors.

Prince Dotun Oyelade, the chairman of the media and publicity sub-committee, emphasised that the carnival was “programmed for success right from inception” and called on journalists to project its vision of unity, culture, and economic revival.

In conclusion, Odebunmi urged all sons and daughters of Ogbomosoland to support this initiative.

“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,” he stated.

The Ogbomoso Cradles Carnival, inaugurated in 2024 as part of the Soun’s developmental vision, has quickly become one of the most anticipated cultural festivals in Oyo State, attracting both local and international attention.