- Two-day gathering to feature awards night, beauty pageant finale and royal blessing by the Ata Igala
The Central Planning Committee of the Igala Cultural and Development Association (ICDA) has formally announced the forthcoming 96th edition of the iconic Ujéjú-Ógu, popularly known as the Italo Cultural Festival, following a royal proclamation by the paramount ruler of the Igala Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Dr. Mathew Alhaji Opaluwa Oguche Akpa II, the Ata Igala.
The grand event, jointly organized by the Igala Area Traditional Council and the ICDA under the chief hostship of the Ata Igala, is scheduled to take place on the 30th and 31st of December, 2026, in Anyigba, Kogi State.
Recognized as the highest global assemblage of the Igala people, this year’s edition is being championed as a major cultural renaissance aimed at driving unity, development, and the overall advancement of the kingdom.
According to an official notification circular dated October 23, 2026, and signed by the Chairman of the Central Planning Committee, Usman Victor Omata, the two-day fiesta will feature a rich array of cultural activities, royal ceremonies, and community engagements designed to showcase the heritage of the Igala nation.
The festivities will commence on Wednesday, December 30, with an Award Night dedicated to honoring iconic Igala personalities and legends who have distinguished themselves through outstanding service to the nation. The opening night will also feature the grand finale of the Face of Italo Beauty Pageant, where the new Miss Igala 2027 will be crowned.
The celebration will culminate on Thursday, December 31, with the Main Cultural Festival Day. On this day, the Ata Igala, serving as the spiritual father and traditional leader of the Igala people, will deliver royal pronouncements and offer spiritual blessings to sons and daughters of the kingdom gathered from across the globe.
In his notification message addressed to Igala associations, communities, traditional rulers, professionals, and institutions both at home and in the diaspora, the committee chairman emphasized that formal invitation cards and detailed event itineraries would be released in due course.
He urged all Igala sons and daughters to actively participate and contribute toward making the historic gathering a resounding success.
