By joshua 
Kogi Culture Ambassador Kemi Olawumi Arrives in Ghana for Aboakyir Festival, Pledges to Make State, Nigeria Proud
Kogi State Culture Ambassador, Amb. Kemi Olawumi, has arrived safely in Winneba, Ghana, ahead of her participation in the 2026 Aboakyir Festival and Cultural Contest.
Olawumi, who is representing both Kogi State and Nigeria at the festival, said she would use the platform to showcase the state’s cultural heritage and strengthen ties between Nigeria and Ghana. She pledged to make Kogi, Nigeria, and Africa proud during the event.
“I thank His Excellency, Gov. Ahmed Usman Ododo, for his unwavering support for this assignment,” Olawumi said on arrival. “I pray that God helps me to make you, the entire Kogi State, Nigeria, and Africa proud.”
The ambassador had earlier briefed Gov. Ododo on her selection as Kogi’s representative at the festival and expressed appreciation for the state government’s support.
The 2026 Aboakyir Festival, hosted by the Effutu people of Winneba in Ghana’s Central Region, will run under the theme _“Advancing Our Cultural Heritage for Development.”_ The week-long celebration includes cultural displays, marathons, youth programs, regattas, concerts, and a grand durbar at the AME Zion School Park.
This year’s edition also marks the 30th anniversary of Neenyi Ghartey VII’s reign as Omanhene of the Effutu Traditional Area and his 70th birthday. Organizers said the festival is expected to draw high-level attendance, including Ghana’s Vice President, Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, alongside traditional leaders, tourists, and cultural delegations.
Olawumi said her participation would highlight Kogi’s cultural identity and promote cultural exchange between Nigeria and Ghana.