The Director-General of the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, Wale Ojo-Lanre, described the festival as a powerful celebration of Yoruba culture, tradition, and heritage. According to him, it also serves as a way to educate younger generations about the rich history and identity of the Yoruba people.

Speaking in Ado Ekiti, Ojo-Lanre presented a Certificate of Recognition for the festival on behalf of the state government to the Ijero-Ekiti Kingdom.

He explained that the Ita-Ajero Festival goes beyond being just a social gathering, calling it a deeply rooted cultural event with strong historical significance. The festival, held in Ijero-Ekiti, traces back to an ancient tradition where prominent Yoruba monarchs would gather at the residence of the Ajero as a unifying platform.

According to him, the Ajero—regarded as a descendant of Oduduwa—historically hosted fellow Yoruba kings, including the Ooni, to deliberate on the progress and unity of Yorubaland. During these gatherings, the monarchs would sit in a circular formation, with the Ajero and the Ooni at the centre, while their attendants stood behind them holding their royal staffs.

The meeting would feature prayers for the land, discussions on challenges and opportunities, and collective decisions aimed at advancing Yorubaland. The Ajero would lead the prayers, followed by other monarchs, with the Ooni concluding.

Ojo-Lanre noted that the 2026 edition of the festival, scheduled for August 21, will recreate this historic tradition in grand style, with monarchs dressed in their finest regalia. He added that the Ooni, who attended the last two editions, is expected to return alongside many other royal fathers.

The initiative, he said, aligns with the vision of Biodun Oyebanji to boost tourism and cultural promotion across the state.

Responding on behalf of the community, Mrs. Fadeke Oguntuase confirmed that preparations are already in motion to make the 2026 edition bigger and more elaborate. She appreciated the Bureau for recognising the festival and supporting efforts to promote local tourism.