The Special Adviser to Governor Monday Okpebholo on Protocol, Daniel Eromosele, has said the maiden edition of the Edo Carnival is set to shine a global spotlight on the state’s vibrant cultural heritage.
Eromosele, who is also the carnival’s convener, explained that the weeklong festival will run from December 21 to 27, 2025. The event will feature cultural parades, food festivals, seminars, pageantry, and a variety of activities celebrating the creativity and diversity of the Edo people.
Preparations for the carnival kicked off with a sensitization roadshow across key areas of Benin City. A dry-run event at the Sir Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub on Airport Road gave residents a sneak peek of what to expect during the main festival later this month.
Speaking at the roadshow, Eromosele, popularly known as Pikolo, said the first Edo Carnival will open the state to fresh opportunities in tourism, commerce, and other sectors of economic growth.
He said, “Edo is very rich in culture, and this carnival is our way of showcasing that heritage to the world. Today’s dry run gives people a glimpse of what to expect when the carnival officially opens on December 21. We will present cultural parades, food festivals, seminars, pageantry, and much more. This is also an opportunity to discover new talent in music, dance, comedy, and cultural displays. One of our goals is to provide a platform for emerging talents to shine.”
Eromosele urged residents and visitors to prepare for the full festival, adding that the carnival goes beyond entertainment, positioning Edo State as a top destination for tourism and investment.
He added, “Beyond the carnival, Edo will be more open to economic opportunities. People will realize that Edo is business-friendly and a place worth visiting. Investors need to key into what we are building.”
Similarly, carnival coordinator Sohpy Udor emphasized that the event aims to highlight the Edo people’s cultural richness. She said, “I am excited to be part of this event. We are expecting many new talents and performances. About six bands, each in different colours, will entertain the public throughout the festival.”
The roadshow featured performances by riders, cultural troupes, students, entertainment enthusiasts, NYSC members, and other groups as the Edo Cultural Carnival 2025 officially kicked off from the Sir Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub. The procession moved through Airport Road to the Edo State House of Assembly and concluded at Oba Ovonramwen Square.
Modelled after the internationally acclaimed Calabar Carnival, the maiden Edo Carnival aligns with Governor Okpebholo’s vision of attracting investment by leveraging tourism, arts, and culture as key drivers to showcase the state’s rich heritage.
