The ancient Ondo Kingdom is gearing up for a major cultural spectacle as indigenes, residents and friends prepare to gather for the grand finale of Ekimogun Day 2025, scheduled for Saturday, December 27.
This year’s edition of the annual socio-cultural celebration will be hosted by the Osemawe and Paramount Ruler of Ondo Kingdom, Oba Dr. Victor Adesimbo Kiladejo, Jilo III, who will welcome an impressive lineup of distinguished royal fathers and national figures.
Among the top dignitaries expected are His Royal Majesty, Oba Saheed Ademola Elegushi, Kusenla III, the Elegushi of Ikate Kingdom, Lagos, and the Ochi’Doma of Idoma Kingdom, His Royal Majesty Dr. John Elaigwu, both serving as Royal Fathers of the Day.
The Chairman of the Day is Dr. Jibayo Adeyeye of Nibanola Golf Resort, Ondo, while the Chief Launcher is Chief Victor Folami Awosika, the Lomafe of Ondo Kingdom.
In a statement, the Chairman of the National Ekimogun Day Planning Committee, Mr. Abiodun Akinjayeju, announced that the 2025 edition has been deliberately redesigned to deliver “a real carnival and real fun,” with a rich lineup of activities to enhance participation and elevate the cultural experience.
According to him, some pre-event activities, such as an intercollegiate football competition, have already begun. The festivities will climax with a grand gala night expected to draw Ondo elites, social clubs, dignitaries, and fun lovers from across Nigeria and the diaspora.
The musical lineup for the night features an array of star performers led by Afro-Juju legend Sir Shina Peters. Also billed to thrill guests are Musiliu Ishola, the trending face of Apala music; Dapsing, Ondo’s fast-rising crowd-pleaser; and Emperor Adegeye, son of the iconic King Sunny Ade, said to be a performer “in whom KSA himself is exceedingly confident and proud.”
Ekimogun Day, which began over three decades ago, has evolved into one of the most significant cultural events in southwestern Nigeria. Beyond its festive appeal, it serves as a major platform for fundraising toward homegrown development initiatives in Ondo Kingdom and for promoting the rich cultural heritage of the Ondo people.
Akinjayeju added that the 2025 edition has been “rebranded, reinvented, and repackaged” to encourage wider participation, especially from Ondo sons and daughters in the diaspora. The decision to host the grand finale between Christmas and New Year, he noted, is aimed at maximizing attendance and fostering greater cultural unity.
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