By Our Correspondent

National News – Vice President Kashim Shettima, former President Olusegun Obasanjo, and at least five governors are expected to attend the 2026 Southern Kaduna Festival scheduled for May 28 to May 30 in Kafanchan.

The annual cultural festival will take place at the Kafanchan Township Stadium in Jema’a Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

Organisers of the event, the Southern Kaduna Leadership Council, disclosed that Shettima will attend as the Special Guest of Honour during the closing ceremony, while Obasanjo is billed to appear as the Father of the Day.

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, is also expected alongside other state governors and dignitaries.

According to the organisers, the 2026 edition of the Southern Kaduna cultural festival carries the theme, “Embrace Diversity, Build Bridges.”

They explained that the event is designed to promote peaceful coexistence, unity, dialogue, and stronger economic ties among the various ethnic and religious communities in Southern Kaduna.

The organisers further stated that the festival would help boost tourism, attract investors, support local businesses, and improve the public image of Southern Kaduna.

Activities lined up for the three-day event include cultural parades, traditional dance performances, local food exhibitions, symposiums, arts and crafts displays, marathon races, archery contests, dambe competitions, and badminton games.

Rear Admiral Ferguson Bobai (retd.), Chairman of the Central Planning Committee, said distinguished sons and daughters of Southern Kaduna who have excelled in public service, business, academics, sports, and security would receive awards during the festival.

Honourees are expected to receive recognitions such as the Southern Kaduna Grand Commander award.

The organisers also called on corporate organisations, government agencies, development partners, and individuals to support the festival aimed at strengthening unity and cultural heritage in Kaduna State.