The 2026 Ovia Osese—a world-renowned cultural festival cherished by the good people of Ogori—came alive on the 17th and 18th of April in the ancient city of Ogori, Ogori/Magongo Local Government Area, Kogi State. This year’s celebration attracted thousands of attendees, including top government functionaries, foreign tourists, and well-wishers of the community. The yearly event witnessed a remarkable number of young maidens of Ogori descent participating in various rites, dances, and thanksgiving ceremonies—truly a great sight to behold.
The Executive Governor of Kogi State, His Excellency Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, was represented by his deputy, His Excellency Elder Joel Oyibo Salifu, who used the occasion to strongly identify with the aspirations of the good people of Ogori.
One of the most beautiful additions to the 2026 Ovia Osese was the impactful role played by the Titi Oaks Foundation in making the occasion memorable. According to the Executive Director of the Foundation, Mrs. Titi Iledun Emmabel, the organization supplied books and school bags to children in both primary and secondary schools in Ogori town to mark the day. She also informed the gathering that the Foundation provided 1,500 packs of sumptuous meals for attendees as part of its effort to upgrade and add colour to the 2026 Ovia Osese.
She said, “On behalf of the Titi Oaks Foundation, I bring you warm greetings and a message of solidarity. We celebrate with you for making this year’s Ovia Osese Festival a remarkable success—rich in culture, unity, and community 
spirit. As part of our modest contribution, we are honored to provide free meals to 1,500 people today. In addition, our children—our pride and future—from various schools will be recognized with gifts of books and school bags. This is our way of investing in the next generation and strengthening the foundation of our community.”
In her congratulatory message to the maidens, Mrs. Titi Iledun Emmabel urged them to embrace “discipline, tradition, and the beauty of our heritage. Carry yourselves with dignity and pride, knowing you represent the strength of Ogori.”
To the parents, she said, “I encourage you to continue nurturing these young ones with values, guidance, and love. Your role is vital in preserving our culture and shaping the responsible leaders of tomorrow.”
She advised the Ogori community to “remain united, supportive of one another, and committed to progress. Our traditions are our identity; let us protect and celebrate them while building a future filled with opportunity.”
The occasion was attended by the President of the Ogori Descendant Union, Dr. Aiso Gabriel Osiwomequin, alongside his team, community leaders, and hundreds of people from the community.
By Felix Udebu
Publisher, The Reflection Newspaper
