The kukuruku hills in Akoko-Edo local government area of Edo State came alive with unprecedented fervor as the Ososo Carnival celebrated its milestone 15th anniversary from December 27 – 30, 2025.
The four-day event, widely regarded as a jewel in Edo State tourism calendar, delivered a masterclass in cultural promotion and community driven entertainment.
The anniversary edition, themed “Festival Without Walls” exceeded all expectations, drawing thousands of tourists, adventure seekers, nature lovers and Ososo sons and daughters from the diaspora. The four-day extravaganza which featured a bonfire night, an arts exhibition, fashion show and a grand carnival parade solidified the carnival’s reputation as Nigeria’s premier community-led tourism initiative.
While cutting the ceremonial tape to flag-off of the Grand Carnival Parade, a major component of the cultural extravaganza, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Ososo Carnival Initiative, Hon. Emmanuel Omoladun Agbaje said that his heart was filled with immense pride watching the vision of the carnival grow from a community initiative into a national beacon of culture and tourism.
Hon. Agbaje noted that in spite of several challenges and setbacks, the carnival has been held back-to-back annually since its inception in 2011 with the exception of 2020 as a result of the COVID 19 pandemic and 2024 due to circumstances beyond the control of the organizers. According to him, consistency has been key, coupled with the dogged interest and sustained support of all stakeholders.
“Fifteen years of Ososo Carnival is a testament to our consistency and our love for our community and heritage. This year, we are not just celebrating the success of the past, we are showcasing to the world that Ososo remains a prime destination for sustainable tourism and creative investment.”
“More importantly, we are showing the world that tourism is the new “oil” for Akoko-Edo and Edo State. in addition, Ososo Carnival is our statement to the world that our rocky hills, history and our hospitality are goldmines waiting to be explored”.
Speaking at the bonfire night which serves as a homecoming ritual of light, dance, music and fireworks on the first day of the carnival, the special guest of honor, Chief Dr. Thomas Attah, the Ekpen of Ekpoma counselled the youths on the need to make real impact that would have positive implications for career, business and development instead of placing premium on trends on the social media.
Chief Attah further advised the youth to take their destiny into their hands. According to him “the future does not wait for anyone and because we all know that the future does not wait for anyone, the time to act and begin to make real impact is now.” He counselled the youths to take the opportunity of the carnival to reflect and reposition themselves for the future.
“This is the time to make a decision, a decision to acquire new skills, acquire new certifications, start a new business and be courageous to seek help where the need arises”.
Speaking at the end of the carnival, the President of Ososo Carnival Initiative, Mr. Moses Ajayi remarked that “Reaching 15 years is a testament to the resilience and passion of the Ososo people. This carnival is no longer just an entertainment event but a strategic platform for sustainable tourism and a bridge connecting our rich past with a prosperous future”.
On the economic and cultural impact of the event, Mr. Ajayi noted that beyond the glitz and glamour of the carnival, local businesses in Ososo and environs experienced a surge in patronage. Hotels and restaurants were filled to capacity and transporters had more than they bargained for. He added that as a result of the activities of the carnival at least three new hotels are currently under construction in Ososo alone.
