The 2025 edition of Okeho Day, holding from 23rd to 29th November, has once again reinforced the cultural pride, unity and collective vision of the sons, daughters and residents of Okeho, as they converge for a week-long celebration rooted in heritage and driven by the quest for development. This year’s event, themed “Rooted in Heritage, United for Education: A Grand Reunion for Okeho’s Future,” stands out as a purposeful and transformative gathering aimed at strengthening the socio-cultural and educational foundations of the ancient community.
The programme commenced on Sunday, 23rd November, with a Church Service and Heritage Rally, during which Christian faithful across various churches in Okeho offered thanksgiving to God for another successful edition. The service also set the tone for unity, reflection and appreciation of Okeho’s rich traditions.
Activities continued on Monday, 24th November, with a massive Community Clean-Up Exercise. Indigenes and residents, irrespective of status, trooped out enthusiastically to clean major streets, markets and public spaces. The exercise, according to organisers, was aimed at ensuring a neat, safe and welcoming environment for both inhabitants and visitors participating in the celebrations.
Day 3, held on Tuesday, showcased the intellectual and creative strength of Kajola youths through the Debate, Essay Writing and Beauty Competition. Secondary school students from across the local government featured in rigorous intellectual engagements that highlighted the importance of education to community advancement. The beauty competition equally served as a platform to promote cultural representation and project the image of Okeho to the outside world.
A historic moment unfolded on Wednesday, 26th November, when residents embarked on an endurance trek to Okeho Ahoro, the ancestral settlement of the community. The Onjo of Okeho, HRM Oba Rafiu Osuolale Mustapha, led the symbolic visit, which featured the stage play, The Okeho Exodus. Participants described the experience as both emotional and unifying, as it rekindled memories of the town’s origins and the resilience of its forebears.
Today, Thursday, 27th November, the spotlight shifts to the Education Summit and Okeholympics, scheduled to hold at the temporary site of the Federal University of Agriculture and Technology, Okeho (FUNATO). Stakeholders in the education sector are expected to deliberate on strategies required to enhance quality education as a foundation for community progress.
Friday, 28th November, will feature special Jumat prayers across mosques in Okeho, alongside an Award Ceremony honouring individuals who have significantly contributed to the town’s growth.
The week-long celebration will climax on Saturday, 29th November, with the Grand Finale and Fundraising for FUNATO, to be held at LA Primary School, Olele.
People have expressed profound appreciation to Ègbé Omo-Ibile Okeho, led by Dr. Kasali Salawu Adesola, the Onjo, the Okeho Indigenous Youth Association, and other stakeholders whose efforts continue to make Okeho Day a remarkable annual reality.
