The Planning Committee for the 2026 Saki Beere Festival has called on the Federal Government of Nigeria and the Oyo State Government to invest in tourism development, infrastructure, and economic opportunities in Saki to unlock the tourism potential of the Oke-Ogun zone and position the ancient festival among Nigeria’s leading cultural attractions.
The committee made the appeal on Tuesday during a press conference held at the Broadcasting Corporation of Oyo State premises, Basorun, Ibadan, where it announced that the 2026 edition of the festival would hold from May 10 to May 18 in Saki, Saki West Local Government Area of Oyo State.
Speaking on behalf of the committee, the Chairman of the Saki Parapo Development Association, Mr. Wole Oladokun, described the annual Beere Festival as not only a cultural celebration but also a viable platform for tourism expansion, economic growth, and community development.
“We are here to draw the attention of the general public to the forthcoming 2026 Beere Festival, which remains one of the oldest cultural celebrations in our land,” Oladokun said.
“This festival is not just a celebration; it is a living heritage that connects our past, present, and future as a people.”
He noted that the festival has continued to receive the support of the Okere of Saki, Oba Surveyor (Dr.) Khalid Oyeniyi Oyedepo III, whom he described as committed to preserving the cultural heritage of the town and repositioning the festival for global recognition.
“However, we are also calling on the Federal and State Governments, especially tourism authorities, to support us in transforming this cultural treasure into a major tourist destination.”
Olodokun disclosed that the committee had already initiated discussions with relevant government agencies, including the Oyo State Ministry of Culture and Tourism and the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority, to secure institutional support for the festival and tourism development in Saki.
“We are already in contact with the Oyo State Ministry of Culture and Tourism. As we speak, we have written letters inviting them to partner with us regarding this festival. We have also contacted the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority and we are expecting their support,” He said
He stressed that tourism remains one of the most dependable sources of non-oil revenue globally and could significantly boost the economy of Saki and neighbouring communities if properly developed.
“Tourism development can create jobs, attract investors, improve local businesses, and bring people from within and outside Nigeria into Saki,” he said.
“But there are important things that need government intervention. Issues such as security, road infrastructure, and other social amenities cannot be handled by the community alone. That is why we are appealing to all tiers of government to come to our aid.”
The committee also highlighted several tourist attractions within Saki and surrounding communities, noting that the area possesses enormous untapped tourism and economic potential.
“We have several tourist attractions in Saki. We have Asabari Hill, the stunning Osuuru Waterfall, and the picturesque Oge Dam. We also have local industries and traditional activities such as shea butter production that visitors can experience,” Oladokun said.
“There are many things people can come and see in Saki and even in the surrounding towns. We should use this opportunity to develop tourism and bring people from across the country and beyond to Oyo State.”
Explaining the historical significance of the festival, Oladokun said the Beere Festival originated from the traditional practice of re-roofing the Okere’s palace using “Beere,” a locally sourced thatch material harvested communally.
“In those days, the Beere Festival symbolised collective responsibility. The palace of the Okere was always the first to be re-roofed as a mark of respect before other homes followed,” he explained.
He added that traditional regulations associated with the festival also contributed to environmental preservation by regulating bush burning, farming, and hunting activities within the community.
According to the committee, preparatory rites for the festival commenced on April 28 with the traditional 13-day notice expected to be issued by the Okere of Saki ahead of the main celebration.
Activities for the festival will officially begin on May 10 with Ibori Day, featuring prayers for past monarchs, drumming displays, a 21-gun salute at the palace, and cultural performances by traditional groups and royal guilds.
Other activities lined up for the nine-day celebration include homage visits, traditional dances, royal feasts, masquerade displays, Gelede performances, spiritual rites, and a public lecture in honour of distinguished personalities, alongside women-led cultural processions.
The grand finale is scheduled to hold on May 18 at the Oyo State Agricultural Development Agency Sports Complex, Saki, where dignitaries, traditional rulers, political leaders, and cultural enthusiasts are expected to converge.
Among those present at the press conference was High Chief Jimoh Olatunji, who represented the Okere of Saki, Oba Surveyor (Dr.) Khalid Oyeniyi Oyedepo III.
Expected guests at the grand finale include Governor Seyi Makinde, Deputy Governor Bayo Lawal, Senator Fatai Buhari, members of the Oyo State House of Assembly, traditional rulers, and other government officials.
