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The ancient town of Isinbode-Ekiti came alive with pomp, pageantry, and rich cultural displays as sons and daughters of the community gathered in large numbers to celebrate the 2026 New Yam Festival, one of the community’s most cherished annual cultural events.
The colourful celebration was led by the traditional ruler of the community, His Royal Majesty, Oba (Barr.) Emmanuel Adesoji Akinyemi, Onaowuro III, the Onisin of Isinbode Kingdom, alongside members of the traditional council, community leaders, and distinguished guests from within and outside the community.
A major highlight of the festival was the presentation of awards and modern farming tools to the five outstanding farmers of the year in recognition of their contributions to agricultural development. The initiative was designed to encourage greater participation in farming, enhance food production, and promote food security within the community.
The event also featured spectacular masquerade performances and captivating cultural displays, while the renowned Egbe Irawọ Owurọ cultural music group entertained guests with melodious performances that kept the atmosphere lively throughout the celebration.
In his welcome address, the Chairman of the Planning Committee, High Chief Michael Falade, the Alagushin of Isinbode-Ekiti, thanked God for another successful edition of the festival. He encouraged residents and indigenes to embrace agriculture as a pathway to economic prosperity, food sufficiency, and sustainable community development, while praying for continued peace, good health, and abundant harvests.
Delivering his goodwill message, His Royal Majesty, Oba (Barr.) Emmanuel Adesoji Akinyemi, Onaowuro III, congratulated all sons and daughters of Isinbode-Ekiti, both at home and in the diaspora, on the successful celebration. The monarch urged them to remain united and continue supporting ongoing developmental initiatives, emphasizing that collective commitment is key to the continued growth and progress of Isinbode Kingdom. He urged citizens outside to cherish their cultural endowment as being witnessed in some cities such as Ekin mogun in Ondo town.
Among the dignitaries present were members of the Onisin-in-Council, including High Chief Timothy Ajayi, the Akire of Isinbode Kingdom; High Chief Eleko; High Chief Asalosin; the Elegbes; the Oloris of the monarch; and members of the Egbegun Cultural Group. Traditional chiefs and invited guests from neighbouring communities, including the Chief Afun of Ode-Ekiti, also attended the colourful celebration.
Speaking after the event, community leader and seasoned journalist, Comrade Olawale Ogunyebi, popularly known as “BAO Isinbode,” commended Kabiyesi, members of the Onisin-in-Council, the Planning Committee, and the entire people of Isinbode-Ekiti for successfully organising the 2026 New Yam Festival.
He also called on governments at all levels to provide greater support for traditional institutions, noting that preserving and promoting cultural heritage remains essential to strengthening community identity, boosting tourism, and passing cherished traditions to future generations.
The annual New Yam Festival remains one of the most significant cultural celebrations in Isinbode-Ekiti. Beyond expressing gratitude to God for a successful harvest, the festival promotes unity, preserves the community’s rich cultural heritage, and reinforces the importance of agriculture as a catalyst for sustainable development and economic growth.
