London Set To Host 2026 Edo Festival And Awards, Three-Day Celebration Of Heritage And Excellence

London will host the 2026 edition of the Edo Festival and Awards from November 20 to 22, bringing together Edo people and friends of the state from Nigeria, the United Kingdom and across the diaspora for a three-day celebration of culture, achievement and unity.

The festival, themed “Celebrating Our Heritage. Honouring Excellence. Building Unity,” is expected to attract traditional rulers, business leaders, professionals, artists, entertainers, entrepreneurs and community leaders.

The event is convened by Ambassador Ken Odeh, founder of Edo Festival and Awards and Chief Executive Officer of JJ Barry Conglomerate. Odeh launched the initiative in 2011 as a platform for promoting Edo culture and strengthening relationships among Edo people in the diaspora.

According to the organisers, the 2026 edition will expand the festival beyond cultural celebration to incorporate business, investment, creativity and community development.

The opening day, Friday, November 20, will feature the Edo Summit, comprising a Business and Investment Forum, leadership and community development sessions, networking opportunities and panel discussions designed to connect entrepreneurs, investors and professionals.

The Cultural Festival and Awards Presentation will take place on Saturday, November 21. The programme will feature traditional Edo dances, a cultural parade, musical performances and an awards ceremony recognising outstanding contributions in business, politics, philanthropy, entertainment, entrepreneurship and media.

The celebration will conclude on Sunday, November 22, with an Art Exhibition showcasing Edo arts and crafts, historical artefacts, cultural heritage and other creative works. The exhibition will also provide opportunities for artist networking and public viewing.

The organisers said the festival, which has been held for more than a decade, has provided an international platform for promoting Edo identity through cultural displays, fashion, food, music, awards and business engagement.

Previous editions have also featured charitable initiatives supporting widows, orphans and less privileged families through scholarships and vocational training.

The organisers said the 2026 festival would particularly seek to strengthen cultural confidence among younger Edo people in the diaspora while positioning Edo heritage as a platform for tourism, investment, economic opportunity and community development.

Further details on the London venue are expected to be announced through the organisers’ website, Edo Festival and Awards.