ADEKANMBI CONGRATULATES OBA BANKOLE AS EMURE-ILE CELEBRATES 2026 AJAGBO FESTIVAL

The Managing Director of the Benin-Owena River Basin Development Authority (BORBDA), Dr Femi Adekanmbi, has congratulated the Elemure of Emure-Ile Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Oba Bankole Adeyefa II, on the occasion of the 2026 Ajagbo Festival, the first edition to be celebrated under the reign of the monarch.

Adekanmbi, in a goodwill message, also felicitated with the people of Emure-Ile at home and in the diaspora, describing the annual festival as a cherished cultural institution that speaks to the rich history, heritage and enduring values of the ancient community.

He noted that festivals such as Ajagbo were not merely occasions for merriment, but important avenues for preserving cultural heritage, promoting unity, and strengthening the bonds that hold communities together.

According to him, the Ajagbo Festival offers the people of Emure-Ile a unique opportunity to celebrate their common heritage, honour their traditions and renew their collective commitment to the peace, unity and development of the kingdom.

Adekanmbi commended Oba Bankole Adeyefa II for providing purposeful and visionary leadership since his ascension to the throne, particularly his efforts to promote peace, unity, and the preservation of Emure-Ile’s cultural identity.

He said the continued observance of the festival was a demonstration of the people’s deep attachment to their roots and a reminder that a people who preserve their history and culture are better positioned to build a strong and prosperous future.

The BORBDA Managing Director further called on sons and daughters of Emure-Ile to continue to support the traditional institution and work collectively for the advancement of the kingdom, stressing that the development of the community remained a shared responsibility.

He expressed confidence that the 2026 Ajagbo Festival would further deepen the bonds of fellowship among the people, promote cultural renaissance and showcase the rich heritage and tourism potential of Emure-Ile to a wider audience.

Adekanmbi prayed that God would grant Oba Bankole Adeyefa II many more years of wisdom, good health and a peaceful reign, while wishing the people of Emure-Ile a memorable and successful celebration.