The Iganmode Cultural Festival has expanded in scope and repute, attracting both national and international attention
Olota Inaugurates Planning Committee for 2025 Iganmode Festival, Appoints Prince Obasanya as Chairman
In a move to kickstart preparations for one of Nigeria’s most culturally vibrant celebrations, His Majesty, Professor Adeyemi Obalanlege, the Olota of Otta and paramount ruler of Aworiland, has inaugurated the Central Planning Committee for the 2025 Iganmode Cultural Festival.
The inauguration ceremony took place on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at the Olota’s Palace, Enu Owa, Ipeti Royal Square in Otta, and marked the official commencement of activities towards what is expected to be a landmark edition of the revered festival.
Oba Obalanlege, a respected monarch and distinguished academic, has been at the forefront of championing cultural revival and heritage preservation across Aworiland. Under his leadership, the Iganmode Cultural Festival has expanded in scope and repute, attracting both national and international attention.
“The Iganmode Festival is not just an event—it is a cultural movement that celebrates our identity, pride, and unity,” the Olota remarked during the inauguration. “Let us rise above political and religious differences to make 2025 a year of cultural elevation for all Awori sons and daughters.”
The 2025 edition holds special significance as it coincides with Odun Egungun, one of the most revered ancestral masquerade festivals globally. The fusion of these two cultural giants is expected to deliver a grand spectacle of rituals, chants, traditional regalia, and cultural pageantry.
Prince Rasaki Obasanya was named Chairman of the newly inaugurated Central Planning Committee. A veteran maritime expert and committed community leader, Prince Obasanya is well-known for his previous contributions to both the Iganmode Festival and Ita Oba Day.
“Prince Obasanya brings to this role years of administrative experience and a genuine love for cultural development,” the Olota noted. “His integrity and visionary leadership are assets that will steer this planning committee to great success.”
Other prominent committee members include:
- Chief Kunle Somorin, former (Chief Press Secretary to Governor Dapo Abiodun)
- Prince Dele Salako
- Alhaji Kamorudeen Ogungbayi
- High Chief Iyabo Ahmed
- Omooba Sesan Dada
- Tpl. Olajide Odungbori
- Mr. Alaba Ahmed
- Araba Ifaniyi Fasola
- Princess Bukola Fadina
- Hon. Solomon Bankole
- Comrade Sukurat Sodolamu
- Comrade Mujeeb Aina (Eko)
The Olota charged all committee members to “serve with transparency, unity, and a spirit of selflessness,” emphasizing that political interference must be avoided to uphold the communal and sacred essence of the event.
“The Iganmode Festival belongs to us all. Let this platform reflect the soul of Aworiland and project our heritage to the world,” the monarch said. Read More
