By: Manoah Kikekon
Lagos, Nigeria — His Royal Majesty, Oba Suleiman Owolabi Ogun-Oloko (Adeoriokin II), the Olu of Iwaya-Yaba Kingdom, has thrown his royal weight behind the forthcoming Eko Sports Tourism Fiesta 2026, following a courtesy visit by the Association of Tourism Practitioners of Nigeria (ATPN), Lagos Chapter, to his palace on Thursday.
The monarch made the pledge during the Lagos ATPN delegation's visit, confirming that the Olu has agreed to serve as Royal Father of the Day at the two-day tourism and sports event.
The palace visit was also aimed at extending the invitation to Her Royal Highness, Olori Rebecca Oloko, Queen of Iwaya-Yaba Kingdom, Yaba, Lagos State, who is expected to serve alongside her husband as Royal Mother of the Day for the fiesta. The Queen, however, was unavailable to receive the delegation in person, as she was away on vacation at the time of the visit — an arrangement she had reportedly made ahead of schedule.
Speaking on behalf of the ATPN delegation, Mr. Alaketu Abiodun, who led the team to the palace, explained that despite the Queen's absence, "she has assured that she would support us".
The Eko Sports Tourism Fiesta 2026 is scheduled to hold on November 26 and 27, 2026, at the Teslim Balogun Stadium in Surulere, Lagos State, bringing together stakeholders in sports, tourism, and culture for a two-day celebration expected to draw participants from across the state and beyond.
"Responding to the invitation through his Personal Aide, Hon. Prince Kareem Oloko, the Olu of Iwaya-Yaba formally acknowledged the honour and gave his assurance of full royal support for the event," Alaketu said.
In appreciation of the monarch's warm reception, the ATPN Lagos State Chapter and members of the Central Working Committee presented a token souvenir to the Kabiyesi, who received the gift warmly. "I would put this to use immediately," the royal father said, as he embraced the gesture on the spot.
With royal endorsement now secured, organisers of the Eko Sports Tourism Fiesta 2026 say the event is shaping up to be a major highlight on Lagos State's sports tourism calendar this November.