The Ilorin Emirate Durbar Committee has unveiled plans for the 2026 Grand Durbar celebration, with organisers promising a world-class cultural showcase aimed at promoting heritage, unity and economic opportunities within the ancient city.
Chairman of the committee, Engr. Suleiman Alapansanpa, disclosed on Monday that the 2026 edition of the Durbar will hold on Thursday, May 28, 2026, at the Kwara Baseball Park, Adewole, Ilorin.
He said the theme of the celebration, “Prosperity in Diversity,” reflects the long-standing coexistence of various ethnic groups within the emirate.
“Ilorin has remained a remarkable meeting point of civilisations, cultures, languages, scholarship and commerce,” Alapansanpa said.
“In a world confronted by division and intolerance, Ilorin continues to offer a timeless example of peaceful coexistence and shared destiny,” he added.
According to him, the emirate accommodates diverse groups including Fulani, Yoruba, Nupe, Baruba, Hausa, Kanuri and Gobirawa, all of whom have contributed to its growth and stability over the years.
Alapansanpa also disclosed that over 500 horses would participate in the grand procession, describing the equestrian display as one of the major highlights of the annual cultural festival.
On security, he assured residents and visitors of adequate arrangements in collaboration with security agencies including the Army, Police and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
“We understand the current security situation in the country. We are working closely with security agencies to ensure a safe and peaceful event,” he said, adding that CCTV cameras would be mounted at strategic locations for surveillance and crowd control.
He stressed that the Durbar remains a non-partisan cultural event, warning against any form of political interference.
“There will be no room for politics. The Durbar belongs to all sons and daughters of Ilorin, regardless of political or religious affiliation,” he said.
As part of efforts to preserve cultural heritage, the committee announced the creation of a Directorate of Storytelling, Digital Media and Cultural Documentation to archive Ilorin’s history for future generations.
The initiative will focus on digital storytelling, historical documentation and educational content aimed at engaging younger audiences and global communities.
Alapansanpa added that the Durbar Vendor Fair and Cultural Market Experience would also be introduced to promote local businesses, artisans, fashion designers and food vendors.
“We believe culture should not only be preserved; it should also create prosperity for the people,” he said.
