By Ebunoluwa Sessou

The minister for Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, Esq., Erelu Oba of Yorubaland, Dr. Becky Olubukola, the newly installed Okanlomo of Yorubaland, Barr. Seyi Tinubu, Mr. Jubril Arogundade and Otunba Rotimi Ajanaku (Asiwaju Odo) among others have been billed for the 2026 National Yoruba Youths Summit tagged Îwà Day Celebration 2026.

Other prominent and top government functionaries, traditional rulers, policymakers, youth leaders, creatives, and cultural advocates from across Yorubaland and Nigeria are also expected to attend the event.
The event is parts of the effort to promote culture as the Coalition of Yoruba Youths Leaders Forum in conjunction with the Palace of Alaafin of Oyo Kingdom holds the Îwà Day Celebration on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at the School of Surveying, Oyo State, by 11:00am.

The Îwà Day Celebration is a national gathering designed to promote Yoruba cultural heritage, moral values, and good character (Îwà Omolúàbí), with special emphasis on Youths development and leadership.

Speaking, President-General of the Coalition of Yoruba Youth Leaders Forum, Prof. (Prince) Tolani Hassan, said that the summit seeks to inspire young people recognized as the potential leaders to embrace integrity, responsibility, and cultural pride as foundations for societal progress.

According to him, the event will take place under the Royal Patronship of His Imperial Majesty, Oba (Engr.) Abimbola Akeem Owoade, Elewu Etu I, the Alaafin of Oyo Kingdom, Iku Baba Yeye, who is also the Royal Patron of the Coalition of Yoruba Youth Leaders Forum and the royal father of the occasion.

“Îwà Day Celebration is more than a cultural event; it is a movement to restore values, strengthen identity, and prepare our youths for responsible leadership. By reconnecting young people to our heritage and the principles of good character, we are investing in a better future for our society.”

He however called on youths, students, cultural stakeholders, community leaders, creatives, policymakers, and the general public to attend and actively participate in this landmark celebration of culture, character, and leadership. Adding that, the event is open to all Nigerian Youths including the Diaspora.