By Raphael Okhiria

T​o commemorate his 10th coronation anniversary, the revered Benin monarch, Omo N’ Oba N’ Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II, Oba of Benin, has opened a food and craft festival in the ancient city.

The festival was flagged off on Friday at the newly transformed Oba Akenzua Cultural Centre in Benin City, Edo State, by the Oba who was ​represented by the Chairman of the Coronation anniversary celebration and former Deputy Governor of Edo State, Chief Lucky Imasuen, alongside Chief Osaro Idah (the Obazelu N’ Iweguae group of Benin).

​The duo also inspected the various exhibitions and interacted with vendors at the event that featured a brilliant array of handmade crafts, unique fashion designs, shoemaking, confectionery, and professional manicure and pedicure services.

Guests enjoyed a mouthwatering fusion of authentic local Benin delicacies and continental masterpieces, delighting food enthusiasts from near and far.

​Fun-seekers, including palace functionaries also used the opportunity to feed their souls with entertaining music and royal art and photo exhibitions.

Attendees relaxed and unwound with assorted drinks while reflecting on the remarkable milestones achieved by the Oba of Benin over the past 10 years on the throne of his forebears.

​Meanwhile, business activities around King Square have received a major boost, while hotel accommodations across Benin City have recorded significant patronage.

As excited fun-seekers gathered to celebrate, the festival proves to be much more than just a gathering for food and craft; it stands as a powerful testament to the enduring Benin culture, seamlessly bridging a glorious past with a prosperous and vibrant future.

The Oba of Benin will be 10 years old on the throne of his ancestors on October 20, 2026.