The grand finale of the 175th Epe Kayokayo Festival celebrated culture, education and community development as six indigenous students were awarded ₦200,000 scholarships each by the Kayokayo Festival Planning Committee.
Epe Insights reports that the King Kosoko Embankment at the Epe Marina Waterfront hosted dignitaries, traditional rulers, political leaders, residents and visitors who gathered to witness the colourful conclusion of the historic annual festival.
The ceremony reflected the rich cultural identity and enduring heritage of the Epe Kingdom.
Delivering his welcome address, the Coordinator and Chairman of the Epe Kayokayo Festival Planning Committee, Barrister Bayo Saliu-Okulu, described the 175th anniversary as a celebration of Epe’s remarkable history and shared cultural values.
He said the festival continues to unite the people while preserving traditions that have been passed from one generation to another.
Barrister Saliu-Okulu noted that Kayokayo remains an important platform for promoting peace, unity, education and cultural preservation.
One of the major highlights of the grand finale was the presentation of scholarships to six outstanding indigenous students from across Epe Kingdom.
Each beneficiary received a scholarship worth ₦200,000 in recognition of academic excellence and to encourage continued educational achievement.
The organisers explained that investing in education remains one of the most meaningful ways to prepare future leaders for the development of Epe.
The scholarship presentation received applause from guests, parents and community leaders in attendance.
The event also celebrated winners of the Kayokayo Qur’anic Competition.
Members of the Kosoko and Aborishade royal families presented prizes to outstanding contestants in recognition of their impressive performances.
The gesture reflected the continued support of the royal families for religious education and youth development.
The Fanti Carnival competition also featured prominently during the grand finale.
Following an exciting display of culture, music and traditional performances, Bado Isale Ward emerged as the overall winner of the carnival competition.
The victory attracted widespread commendation from spectators who praised the ward’s outstanding creativity and colourful presentation.
The carnival showcased the cultural richness, artistic talent and vibrant traditions of the Epe Kingdom.
Guests also witnessed cultural performances that highlighted the customs and heritage of the community.
The colourful displays reinforced the importance of preserving indigenous traditions for future generations.
The atmosphere throughout the celebration reflected unity, pride and appreciation for Epe’s historical legacy.
Among the dignitaries present were the Member representing Epe Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Wale Raji, and the Member representing Epe Constituency I in the Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Abiodun Tobun.
Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to initiatives that promote the welfare and development of the people of Epe.
They commended the organisers for sustaining one of the community’s most important cultural celebrations.
The lawmakers also praised the festival for promoting education, cultural identity and community cohesion.
Traditional rulers present encouraged younger generations to embrace the values and traditions that define the Epe Kingdom.
They noted that preserving cultural heritage remains essential for sustaining the identity of the community.
Residents expressed appreciation to the Kayokayo Festival Planning Committee for organising another successful edition of the celebration.
Many described the scholarship awards as a significant investment in the future of indigenous students.
They also commended the inclusion of educational, religious and cultural activities throughout the festival.
The 175th Kayokayo Festival once again demonstrated the enduring importance of culture as a tool for unity, education and community development.
As the curtain falls on another memorable celebration, the festival leaves behind lasting memories of cultural pride, academic excellence and collective commitment to preserving the rich heritage of the Epe Kingdom for generations to come.
