First Focus Magazine

2026 Ilese Day Festival Commence 26 July

The Governors of Ogun and Lagos states, His Excellency Prince Dapo Abiodun and Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu respectively, are among the dignitaries expected at the 2026 Ilese Day Festival.

Pa. Kayode Odusanya, Bobatolu of Ilese and Chairman of the Ilese League of Nation Builders, said all roads will lead to the ancient city of Ilese for the annual festival, which provides a platform for social interaction and community engagement.

He said the weeklong program would feature side attractions such as, a beauty pageant, awards presentation, carnival displays, a free scholarship scheme, quizzes and football competitions, and free health services.

Pa. Odusanya urged indigenes of Ilese, especially those in the diaspora, to attend and contribute to the development of their fatherland.

Funds generated from the annual event have financed community projects including a police station and the monarch's palace, among other initiatives that have added value and promoted economic prosperity.

The pioneer chairman of the planning committee was Barrister Kunle Kalejaiye (SAN), who leveraged community opportunities for comparative advantage.

He was succeeded by Otunba Sola Mogaji, who continues to steer the Planning Committee's development efforts.

Community and international personalities were urged to join the drive for grassroots development.