The Planning Committee for the 2026 Saki Beere Festival has called on the Federal Government and the Oyo State Government to commit strategic investment to tourism, infrastructure, and economic development in Saki, stating that failure to act could leave the vast cultural and commercial potential of the Oke-Ogun zone largely untapped.
The appeal was made on Tuesday at a press conference held at the Broadcasting Corporation of Oyo State in Basorun, Ibadan, where organisers formally unveiled plans for the 2026 edition of the historic festival, scheduled to run from 10 to 18 May, in Saki, Saki West Local Government Area of Oyo State.
Addressing journalists, Chairman of the Saki Parapo Development Association, Mr Wole Oladokun, underscored the enduring relevance of the Beere Festival, describing it as both a cultural institution and a powerful, yet underutilised, driver of economic growth, tourism expansion, and community advancement.
He said: “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. This festival is not just a celebration; it is a living heritage that connects our past, present, and future as a people.”
He commended the sustained backing of the Okere of Saki, Oba Khalid Oyeniyi Oyedepo III, noting the monarch’s commitment to safeguarding the town’s cultural identity while positioning the festival for international 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,” he said.
Oladokun revealed that engagement had already commenced with key government institutions, including the Oyo State Ministry of Culture and Tourism and the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority, in a bid to secure formal partnerships and institutional support.
“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 stated.
He emphasised that tourism remained one of the most dependable sources of non-oil revenue globally, arguing that, with proper investment, Saki and its neighbouring communities could reap significant economic benefits.
“Tourism development can create jobs, attract investors, improve local businesses, and bring people from within and outside Nigeria into Saki. 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,“ he said.
Highlighting the area’s rich tourism assets, the committee pointed to a range of natural and cultural attractions capable of drawing both domestic and international visitors.
“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.“
“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,“ Oladokun said.
Providing historical context, Oladokun explained that the Beere Festival traces its origins to the communal re-roofing of the Okere’s palace using “Beere”, a locally sourced thatch material, a tradition that symbolised unity and shared responsibility.
“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 said.
He added that the festival also historically played a regulatory role within the community, helping to preserve the environment by guiding practices such as bush burning, farming, and hunting.
According to the committee, preparatory rites commenced on April 28, with the customary 13-day notice to be issued by the Okere of Saki ahead of the main festivities. The programme of events will begin on May 10 with Ibori Day, featuring prayers for past monarchs, drumming displays, a 21-gun salute at the palace, and performances by traditional groups and royal guilds.
Other highlights of the nine-day celebration include homage visits, traditional dances, royal banquets, masquerade displays, Gelede performances, spiritual observances, a public lecture honouring distinguished individuals, and cultural processions led by women.
The festival will culminate in a grand-finale on May 18, at the Oyo State Agricultural Development Agency Sports Complex in Saki, where an array of dignitaries, traditional rulers, political leaders, and cultural enthusiasts are expected to converge.
High Chief Jimoh Olatunji, representing the Okere of Saki, was among those in attendance at the press briefing.
Dignitaries expected 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 senior government officials.
