The highly anticipated 2025 World Twins Festival officially commenced today in Igbo-Ora, Oyo State, with a series of opening events that set a vibrant tone for the week-long celebration. The launch featured special interdenominational prayers and a well-attended press conference at the Igbo-Ora Community Town Hall.
Under the theme “Twinning for Youths Reorientation and Empowerment,” this year’s festival aims to harness the unique symbol of twinship to drive positive social change.
In his opening address, the Festival Chairman, HRM Oba Jamiu Ademola Badmus, the Olu-Aso of Iberekodo Land, underscored the festival’s core mission. “Our focus is on preserving and promoting the rich cultural identity of Igbo-Ora as the undisputed World Capital of Twins,” he stated.
The Executive Chairman of Ibarapa Central Local Government, Hon. Olusola Adeleke, delivered a strong message of governmental support. “We are fully committed to elevating this festival to a UNESCO-recognized cultural standard, ensuring it receives the global acclaim it deserves,” Hon. Adeleke assured attendees.
The royal father of the town, Oba Jimoh Olajide Titiloye (Asoroolu Ayinla V), the Olu of Igbo-Ora Land, described the festival as a global symbol of peace, unity, and heritage. He expressed gratitude to the Oyo State Government and stakeholders while making a specific appeal for the completion of the Igbo-Ora Twins Radio project ahead of next year’s festivities.
The press conference was graced by a strong representation of the Ibarapa Central Traditional Council, including the Baba-Aso of Iberekodo-Igbole, the Onisagan-un of Sagan-un, the Onidofin of Idofin, and the Regent of Pako, alongside government officials and media partners.
Week-Long Celebration Culminates in Historic Gathering
The 2025 World Twins Festival will feature a packed schedule of events, including academic contests, indoor sports, a special twins’ football match, and a book launch honoring the late Chief Amos Olasupo Adegoke.
The celebrations will reach their climax on Saturday, October 11, with the Grand Finale, which is recognized as the world’s largest gathering of twins. The festival will conclude on Sunday, October 12, with a community-wide thanksgiving service.
Elder Festus Olayiwola, Chairman of the Igbo-Ora Central Working Committee, provided closing remarks, thanking guests and the press for their vital partnership in sustaining the festival’s enduring legacy.
