Secretary of the Organising Committee of the Ilorin Durbar, Farida Sagaya, has described the annual cultural festival as a symbol of unity, identity, and peaceful coexistence among the diverse ethnic groups in the Ilorin Emirate, saying preparations are underway for a bigger and more globally visible 2026 edition.

Sagaya said the 2026 Ilorin Durbar would retain the theme, “Unity in Diversity: Ilorin’s Timeless Gift,” with renewed emphasis on cultural preservation, youth participation, tourism promotion, and global recognition.

She explained that the festival dates back to the 1830s when it emerged as a martial display commemorating the military victories of the Ilorin Emirate against the combined forces of the old Oyo Empire and the Baruba people.

According to her, the festival was revived in 2018 by the Emir of Ilorin, Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, after years of dormancy as part of efforts to reconnect residents with their cultural heritage.

Sagaya noted that the festival reflects Ilorin’s unique identity as a convergence of Fulani, Yoruba, Hausa, Kanuri, Nupe, Gobir, and Baruba cultures, adding that the celebration continues to reinforce peace, communal harmony, and loyalty to the Emirate.

She said the Ilorin Durbar differs from many other northern durbars because of its multi-ethnic character, stressing that while similar festivals are often rooted primarily in Hausa-Fulani traditions, the Ilorin version showcases a broader cultural blend and stronger communal participation.

According to her, the festival has evolved from a traditional military parade into a modern cultural spectacle that now embraces digital storytelling, live streaming, and drone coverage to attract younger audiences and expand its global reach.

Sagaya disclosed that activities lined up for the 2026 edition include a grand procession of decorated horsemen through designated routes, cultural performances such as Keegbe Lulu (calabash beating) and traditional Ilorin anthems, alongside exhibitions of indigenous crafts including Dada pottery and Aso-oke weaving.

She added that the celebration is expected to attract traditional rulers, government officials, diplomats, tourism stakeholders, business leaders, cultural ambassadors, lawmakers, international visitors, researchers, and media organisations from across Nigeria and beyond.

Sagaya further noted that the festival has continued to stimulate economic activities in Ilorin, with artisans, tailors, transport operators, food vendors, and hospitality businesses recording increased patronage during the celebration.

She added that the Ilorin Durbar is also strengthening Nigeria’s tourism profile by attracting visitors from more than 17 countries and projecting the nation’s cultural heritage globally, particularly as efforts intensify toward securing broader international recognition through UNESCO cultural heritage initiatives.l