The 2026 edition of the Okpe New Yam Festival, popularly known as Ukpilla, has been described as the biggest and most successful in the history of the annual cultural celebration, according to an appraisal report made available to Truth Live News International.
Held on 24 July 2026 in Okpe Kingdom, Akoko Edo Local Government Area of Edo State, the festival reportedly attracted more than 50,000 tourists, representing an estimated 66 percent increase over the 2025 edition, which recorded fewer than 30,000 participants.
The report noted that the festival, which marks the beginning of the traditional new year and celebrates a successful harvest, transformed the ancient kingdom into a vibrant cultural destination, bringing together indigenes, visitors and tourists from across Nigeria and beyond.
A Celebration of Culture and Heritage
According to the appraisal, the festival retained its rich cultural traditions, beginning with the customary 13 day notice issued by the Olokpe of Okpe Kingdom and his chiefs before the official commencement of activities. The celebration was ushered in at dawn with ceremonial gunshots from the royal palace, signalling the beginning of the new year.
As tradition demands, sons and daughters of the kingdom, alongside visitors, paid homage to the Olokpe with symbolic gifts including yam tubers, goats and bush meat, while families welcomed guests with traditional delicacies, especially pounded yam and egusi soup.
The report described the festival as a symbol of gratitude to God and the ancestors for abundant harvests, while also serving as a unifying platform for Okpe people both at home and in the diaspora.
Festival Activities Captivate Visitors
Among the major attractions highlighted in the report were the Olokpe’s morning and evening royal dances, football competitions, music roadshows, carnivals held at Oyobuni and Ojira Quarters, and the Okpe Arsenal Supporters’ Victory Party.
The appraisal stated that the atmosphere created during the celebrations rivalled internationally recognised carnivals, with thousands participating peacefully throughout the event.
Economic Boost for the Kingdom
The report observed that the festival generated significant economic benefits for the local community.
Vendors, transport operators, farmers and artisans reportedly experienced between 40 and 50 percent increases in revenue during the festival period due to the influx of visitors and heightened commercial activities.
Security Commended
Security arrangements also received commendation in the report.
Although conventional security agencies were present, the local vigilante group was credited with playing a major role in maintaining peace and order. There were no reported incidents of major misconduct or arrests throughout the celebration.
Challenges Identified
Despite its overall success, the appraisal identified several areas requiring improvement ahead of future editions.
These include inadequate national media coverage, limited corporate sponsorship, traffic congestion around the Oyobuni Carnival, prolonged electricity outages during the festival period, insufficient waste disposal facilities, limited accommodation for visitors, inadequate food vendors in some locations and the absence of designated public relaxation areas.
The report also noted concerns over poor sound quality at some entertainment venues, although the Arsenal Supporters’ Victory Party received praise for its excellent audio setup.
Stakeholders Seek Better Planning
Feedback gathered from attendees, vendors, performers and volunteers was overwhelmingly positive.
Many visitors described the event as exceptional and expressed their intention to return in 2027. Vendors praised the commercial opportunities created by the festival but appealed for improved electricity supply during the festival to preserve beverages and other perishable goods.
Volunteers recommended establishing a structured volunteer programme to assist tourists and improve visitor experiences, while stakeholders unanimously called for the creation of an official festival website to provide information on schedules, accommodation, transportation and other visitor services.
Recommendations for 2027
The appraisal recommended that organisers begin sponsorship engagements with corporate organisations and government agencies at least six months before the festival.
Other recommendations include improved traffic management in collaboration with relevant authorities, better waste management systems, guaranteed electricity supply, repairs to existing solar powered streetlights, establishment of a comprehensive planning committee and the development of a dedicated festival website to enhance global visibility.
The report concluded that, if these recommendations are implemented, the 2027 Okpe New Yam Festival has the potential to become one of Nigeria’s top ten cultural festivals, attracting even greater international recognition and tourism.
