The ancient town of Irete-Ijebu is set for a vibrant cultural revival as preparations intensify for the second edition of the Owo-Ila Festival, with its monarch, Olusegun Awokoya-Yesufu, calling for urgent government intervention in key development areas.

Speaking ahead of the April 5, 2026 celebration, the royal father described the festival as more than a cultural gathering, positioning it as a strategic platform for unity, heritage preservation, and grassroots development.

However, he used the opportunity to spotlight pressing challenges facing the community, urging the Ogun State Government to prioritise investments in education, security, and infrastructure.

Top on his requests is the establishment of a government primary school and the deployment of a security outpost to cater to the town’s growing population, particularly students around the Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona College of Education and Technology.

While acknowledging ongoing federal interventions in road development linking Irete to key economic corridors such as Epe, Lekki, and the Dangote Refinery axis, the monarch stressed that state-level action is critical to closing development gaps at the grassroots.

The Owo-Ila Festival, which debuted last year, is rapidly evolving into a major cultural event, drawing indigenes and visitors from across Nigeria and beyond. This year’s edition will be hosted at the college’s open field, with organisers promising a bigger and more impactful outing.

Festival coordinator, Otunba Saheed Dosumu, reinforced the monarch’s appeal, noting that improved access to basic education and enhanced security presence remain essential for sustainable community growth.

Community leaders, including the Iyalode, Chief Mrs. Ogoji Idayat Tope, and other traditional stakeholders, pledged their full support for the event, highlighting its role in mobilising residents and strengthening communal ties.

Activities lined up include a football tournament, marathon race, cultural showcases, and musical performances, with Fuji star Musiliu Ishola expected to headline the celebration.

Organisers also announced a free medical outreach sponsored by the monarch, alongside robust security arrangements to ensure a safe and successful event.

As momentum builds, stakeholders are positioning Irete Owo-Ila Day as not just a festival, but a catalyst for long-term transformation—leveraging culture as a driver for development, unity, and economic growth.