By Lukman OMIKUNLE
The Odemo of Isara-Remo, Oba Peter Ogunbayo, has unveiled plans for the 57th Afotamodi Festival, featuring cultural displays, sporting events, investment opportunities, palace renovation fundraising
KWAM 1, Musiliu Haruna Ishola Set to Light Up Isara-Remo as Odemo Announces Biggest Afotamodi Festival Yet
The ancient town of Isara-Remo in Ogun State is gearing up for what promises to be one of the most memorable editions of its celebrated Afotamodi Festival as the Odemo of Isara-Remo, His Royal Highness, Oba Peter Oluwole Ogunbayo, announced plans for a grand and transformative 57th edition of the annual cultural fiesta.
Renowned for its rich cultural heritage and deep-rooted traditions, Isara-Remo will once again come alive with a week-long celebration that showcases the customs, values and communal spirit of the people. However, according to the monarch, the 2026 edition will transcend cultural festivities and serve as a strategic platform for economic advancement, investment promotion and community development.
The Afotamodi Festival derives its name from the revered Isara-Remo oriki, “Isara Omo Afotamodi Kogun Ma Wolu,” a phrase that reflects the town’s enduring history, resilience and pride. Over the decades, the festival has evolved into one of the most anticipated cultural events in Remoland, attracting indigenes, visitors, investors and cultural enthusiasts from across Nigeria and beyond.
Speaking on the significance of this year’s celebration, Oba Ogunbayo described the forthcoming edition as a defining moment in the history of the town.
“The Afotamodi Festival has always been a rallying point for our people, but the 57th edition will be particularly special because it is designed not only to celebrate our culture and heritage but also to project the immense economic potential of Isara-Remo to the world,” the monarch said.
“We want investors, industrialists and business leaders within Nigeria and across the international community to see Isara-Remo as a viable destination for investment. Our town possesses enormous opportunities in commerce, manufacturing, real estate and other sectors capable of generating sustainable growth. Through this festival, we are opening our doors wider to partnerships that will create jobs and improve the quality of life of our people.”
The royal father further emphasized the peaceful nature of the town, describing Isara-Remo as a secure environment for businesses and investors.
“From ancient times till this day, Isara-Remo has remained a peaceful and welcoming community. We are proud of our history and our unity. This atmosphere of peace and stability makes our town an ideal location for investment and development. We invite all sons and daughters of Isara-Remo as well as friends of the town to join us in building a prosperous future,” he added.
Also speaking on preparations for the festival, the Secretary to the Odemo of Isara-Remo, Alhaji Yesiru Olajide Sansalisu, disclosed that an array of activities has been lined up to ensure a vibrant and unforgettable celebration.
According to him, the festival will feature sporting competitions involving youths and community groups, culminating in highly anticipated football finals on the sixth day of activities. Traditional and cultural showcases including Egungun displays, Agemo performances, Onire rites and other indigenous cultural expressions will also form a major highlight of the week-long event.
“Afotamodi Festival is a complete celebration of our identity as a people. It combines culture, sports, entertainment, education and community service. We have carefully packaged this edition to appeal to every age group while preserving the traditions that make Isara-Remo unique,” Sansalisu said.
He added that the event schedule includes the prestigious Miss Afotamodi Beauty Pageant, musical carnivals across different quarters of the town, educational initiatives, healthcare programmes and several community engagement activities aimed at fostering social cohesion.
“The grand finale will showcase the very best of Isara-Remo. There will be colourful cultural displays, the famous Regberegbe age-grade parade, homage to the Odemo, fundraising activities and entertainment for distinguished guests. It will be a celebration that reflects the pride, strength and aspirations of our people,” he stated.
One of the major objectives of the 2026 festival, according to the organisers, is to raise funds for the comprehensive renovation of the historic Odemo Palace. The project seeks to transform the palace into a modern royal edifice befitting the status and heritage of the traditional institution while also supporting other developmental initiatives across the community.
Adding star power to the festivities, legendary Fuji icon King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (KWAM 1), celebrated Apala maestro Musiliu Haruna Ishola and renowned gospel artiste Evangelist Lanre Teriba have been confirmed to headline the entertainment segment of the event.
With preparations already in top gear, expectations are high that the 57th Afotamodi Festival will not only reinforce Isara-Remo’s place as a cultural beacon in Ogun State but also open a new chapter of economic growth, investment opportunities and community transformation for generations to come.
