Abuja: Edo Commissioner for Finance, Emmanuel Okoebor, announced that the Edo Carnival 2026 is aiming to attract close to 100,000 participants and generate over ?1 billion in economic activity. As the Chairman of the Inter-Ministerial Planning Committee for the carnival, Okoebor made this disclosure during the Edo Carnival 2026 Press Conference held on Thursday.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the maiden edition of the carnival in 2025 drew more than 10,000 attendees, marking the beginning of significant economic opportunities. The inaugural event featured over 1,000 parade participants and 27 different costume types. Local artisans, including Edo tailors, were responsible for producing costumes and footwear, while more than 500 food-selling centers operated during the event.
Okoebor elaborated that the 2026 edition aims to establish the carnival as a long-term cultural brand that can attract tourists, creatives, businesses, and investors. He expressed the vision of the carnival continuing for decades, benefiting various sectors like hotels, restaurants, transportation, fashion, food, and entertainment.
The Commissioner highlighted the government’s focus on creating tangible opportunities for young people and businesses. He noted that the 2025 edition was entirely supported by private sector organizations, ensuring no financial burden on the state government, and expressed confidence in forming more partnerships for the upcoming carnival.
Chris Okaeben, Edo Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, emphasized that the carnival is designed to showcase the state’s rich culture and create opportunities within the creative economy. He noted the potential of Edo’s food, fashion, hair, festivals, arts, and heritage to attract visitors and solidify the state’s position as a tourism destination.
Carnival Consultant Sophie Udoh pointed out that community participation was a major challenge in the 2025 edition. To address this, the 2026 carnival will introduce an open band to increase direct participation in the street parade. Each band is expected to convey a distinct story through costumes and representation.
The 2026 edition, themed ‘The Spirit of Edo,’ is scheduled to take place from December 13 to December 26. Organized by the state government with support from Peak Rendezvous Global, the event will include a variety of activities such as registration, tours, auditions, opening of the carnival village, trade fairs and exhibitions, medical outreach, and parade and band competitions.