The 175th Epe Kayokayo Festival concluded on a memorable note as traditional rulers, political leaders, residents and visitors gathered to celebrate the kingdom’s rich heritage, promote unity and reaffirm their commitment to the future of Epe.
Epe Insights reports that the grand finale, held at the King Kosoko Embankment, Epe Marina Waterfront, showcased the enduring cultural identity of Epe while highlighting the festival’s growing role in education, tourism, youth empowerment and community development.
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 values.
He said the festival reflects the unity, faith and cultural identity that have sustained the kingdom for generations.
“Today is more than a celebration of longevity; it is a reaffirmation of our identity, our rich heritage, our enduring faith and the shared values that continue to unite us as one people,” Barrister Saliu-Okulu stated.
He explained that the Kayokayo Festival has grown beyond a cultural celebration into a platform that promotes education, tourism, youth empowerment, economic development and peaceful coexistence.
According to him, the annual festival continues to create opportunities that benefit both present and future generations.
He noted that preserving history while embracing development remains central to the vision of the Kayokayo Festival Planning Committee.
Barrister Saliu-Okulu commended members of the planning committee, community leaders and volunteers for their dedication throughout the festival.
He also appreciated sponsors and development partners whose contributions supported the successful organisation of the celebration.
The grand finale featured colourful cultural displays that reflected the traditions and customs of the Epe Kingdom.
Traditional music, dance performances and other cultural presentations entertained guests while promoting the community’s unique heritage.
The atmosphere at the Marina Waterfront reflected unity, pride and appreciation for the history of the ancient kingdom.
The event also highlighted the importance of investing in the younger generation through education and empowerment initiatives.
Community leaders encouraged youths to embrace their cultural identity while pursuing academic and professional excellence.
The organisers reiterated that preserving cultural heritage and empowering young people remain essential to sustainable development.
In their separate remarks, 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, reaffirmed their commitment to the continued growth and development of Epe Kingdom.
The lawmakers pledged sustained support for initiatives that improve education, infrastructure, youth empowerment and economic opportunities across the kingdom.
They commended the Kayokayo Festival Planning Committee for preserving Epe’s rich cultural heritage through the annual celebration.
Both leaders described the festival as an important platform for strengthening community values and promoting development.
They encouraged residents to continue supporting programmes that preserve culture while creating opportunities for future generations.
Traditional rulers at the event also praised the festival for promoting unity and strengthening communal bonds.
They noted that the preservation of cultural heritage remains a shared responsibility for every member of the community.
Residents and visitors expressed satisfaction with the organisation of the week-long celebration.
Many described the festival as a fitting reflection of Epe’s history, hospitality and cultural pride.
The grand finale concluded with appreciation for sponsors, volunteers, traditional institutions and members of the planning committee whose collective efforts contributed to the success of the 175th edition.
Their commitment was widely acknowledged as instrumental in delivering another memorable Kayokayo Festival.
As activities drew to a close, participants reflected on the festival’s enduring impact on cultural preservation and community development.
The 175th Epe Kayokayo Festival once again demonstrated that the annual celebration remains more than a cultural event.
It continues to serve as a platform for promoting education, rewarding excellence, strengthening communal relationships, encouraging tourism and inspiring sustainable development.
The successful conclusion of the festival reinforces Epe’s reputation as a community that values its heritage while embracing opportunities for growth and progress.
With another historic edition completed, residents remain optimistic that the Kayokayo Festival will continue to preserve the legacy of King Kosoko, promote cultural tourism and inspire future generations to uphold the traditions that define the Epe Kingdom.
