Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, says his administration is working to establish the state as a major destination for cultural tourism while using the creative industry to drive economic opportunities.
The governor also challenged young Ekiti residents to turn their skills and talents into viable businesses capable of creating employment and improving their livelihoods.
Oyebanji, represented by the Deputy Governor, Monisade Afuye, spoke on Tuesday during the commencement of the 2026 Ekiti State Festival of Arts and Culture, EKIFEST, held at the Fajuyi Pavilion in Ado Ekiti.
The five day festival, which runs from August 11 to 15, is themed, “Continuity, The Pathway to Ensuring Prosperity.”
The event is expected to bring together people interested in culture and tourism, alongside players in the creative industry.
According to the governor, investing in creativity and developing young talents could help expand businesses, generate employment and strengthen the state’s economy despite the current economic situation.
He said, “Our vision is clear—we want Ekiti to become Nigeria’s foremost destination for cultural tourism and one of Africa’s leading creative hubs.
“We are building infrastructure, strengthening institutions, supporting our creative talents, expanding opportunities for young entrepreneurs and creating an environment where culture contributes meaningfully to our economy.”
Oyebanji also assured people in the creative sector, including artists and art exhibitors, that his administration would continue to provide support and patronage to help sustain their activities.
He said the festival provided an important platform for young people to explore their abilities and contribute to the development of their communities.
The governor said, “To our young people, this festival belongs to you. Your creativity is your wealth. Your ideas can create jobs. Your talents can build businesses. Your imagination can transform communities. The creative economy is no longer the future—it is already here.
“As we celebrate EKIFEST, let us remember that the true measure of any society is not only in its roads and buildings, but also in how faithfully it preserves its heritage and how boldly it empowers its people.”
He added that the festival would support economic expansion, encourage investment and create opportunities for young people and other professionals within the creative sector.
The Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Rasak Bakare, commended the governor for his investment in the sector, noting that EKIFEST offered an avenue to showcase and preserve Ekiti’s cultural identity.
Bakare said culture should not be viewed solely as entertainment, pointing to its role in promoting unity, hospitality, peaceful relationships and social development.
He said, “This year’s EKIFEST will feature a cultural parade, command performances, traditional competitions and talent showcases that identify the cultural diversity of Ekiti people. The Biodun Oyebanji-led government is aware of the fact that culture can only be preserved when practised and passed on to coming generations.
“Under Oyebanji’s government, one of the fastest-growing sectors generating employment and attracting investments is arts and culture.”
The opening ceremony featured a cultural performance by veteran Yoruba actor, Dele Odule, and members of his troupe.