IKORODU FANTI CARNIVAL 2026: IKODAS RELEASES ₦l6M SEED FUND AS LGA ADOPTS EVENT
The 2026 Ikorodu Fanti Carnival is set for an expanded edition following the release of ₦6 million in seed funding by the Ikorodu-Oga Development Association (IKODAS) to support preparations by three participating quarters.
The funding, amounting to ₦2 million each for Aga-Parapo, Ijomu-Parapo and Isele-Parapo, is expected to strengthen planning, widen participation and promote Ikorodu’s cultural heritage, tourism and local economic activities.
IKODAS Chairman, Alhaji Kolawole Fatai Olayiwola Ogunfodunrin, described the previous edition as an eye-opener that demonstrated the carnival’s potential despite limited financial resources. He said the latest funding was a take-off grant, adding that a celebration of such scale would require additional support.
The carnival coordinator, Comrade Pelumi Olalekan, popularly known as Rado, disclosed that the 2026 edition would feature more structured planning, wider participation and the presence of dignitaries. He said the participating quarters had established zones to mobilise residents, with Isele-Parapo operating 10 zones, Ijomu-Parapo eight and Aga-Parapo seven.
A major development is the adoption of the carnival by the Chairman of Ikorodu Local Government, Hon. Adedayo Ladega, as a local government programme, with plans for annual funding. The move is expected to provide a more sustainable framework for the event’s continuity.
Beyond cultural display and entertainment, organisers say the carnival has generated economic opportunities for local traders, food vendors and other small businesses. They reported that some residents used proceeds from the previous event to meet household expenses, including school fees and rent.
The wider 35th Ikorodu-Oga celebration will also feature a scholarship programme targeting more than 200 students. Ogunfodunrin said contributions from public figures, community leaders, associations and other stakeholders would support the initiative. He disclosed that Senator Abdulaziz Yari’s contribution would provide scholarships for 100 students this year, while expressing an ambition to expand the scheme to between 600 and 700 scholarships and bursary awards before the end of his tenure.
Meanwhile, the official Ankara fabric for the celebration is available at ₦9,000 for six yards, with attendees expected to wear the designated fabric for entry.
With seed funding secured, community zones established and local government support announced, the 2026 Ikorodu Fanti Carnival is being positioned as a platform for preserving cultural identity, encouraging community participation and expanding opportunities for tourism and grassroots enterprise.
