By, Olaide Gold
The President of the International Congress for Ifa and Orisa Spirituality (ICIOS), Chief Fakunle Oyesanya, has commended the contributions of stakeholders and participants following the successful conclusion of the 2026 World Ifa/Orisa Festival and Pilgrimage held in Ekiti State.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, Oyesanya described the week-long event as a remarkable celebration of spirituality, culture, heritage, and unity among devotees of Ifa and Orisa traditions from across the globe.
The ICIOS President expressed special appreciation to cultural advocate and wife of the Ooni of Ife, Queen Folashade Ashley Ogunwusi, for her outstanding presence and support throughout the festival. He noted that her stunning appearance and commitment to the promotion of Yoruba culture added glamour and significance to the international gathering.
Oyesanya also acknowledged the support of the Ekiti State Government, traditional rulers, custodians of sacred shrines, scholars, volunteers, sponsors, and pilgrims whose collective efforts contributed to the success of the event.
According to him, the 12th edition of the festival since its inception in 2014 attracted participants from Africa, the Americas, Europe, the Caribbean, Asia, and other parts of the world, reaffirming the growing global acceptance of Ifa and Orisa spirituality.
He said the pilgrimage offered devotees an opportunity to reconnect with their ancestral roots through visits to sacred sites and shrines associated with Orunmila and other revered Orisa in Ekiti State.
The ICIOS President reiterated the importance of preserving the authenticity of Ifa and Orisa traditions, stressing that the teachings of Ifa, particularly the principle of Iwa Pele (good character), remain relevant in addressing contemporary social and moral challenges.
Oyesanya further called for the development of sacred pilgrimage destinations and heritage sites to world-class standards, noting that such efforts would promote cultural tourism and contribute significantly to Ekiti State's economy.
He urged practitioners across the world to remain united despite differences in language, culture, and geographical location, emphasizing that the global Ifa and Orisa family shares a common spiritual heritage.
The festival concluded with prayers for peace, wisdom, justice, harmony, and prosperity, as participants departed with renewed commitment to preserving and promoting the values of Ifa and Orisa spirituality worldwide.
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