SUNDAY MATTHEW TAGGAH, KADUNA

The Southern Kaduna Festival (SKFEST), a cultural celebration showcasing the rich heritage of Southern Kaduna’s 57 ethnic communities, has been rescheduled to the first quarter of 2026, shifting from its usual December timeline.

The announcement was made on Wednesday, during a press briefing in Kaduna by the Chairman of the Central Planning Committee (CPC), Rear Admiral Ferguson Bobai (rtd).

Bobai explained that following the successful hosting of the festival’s first two editions in December 2023 and 2024, the Southern Kaduna Leadership Council (SKLC) —the principal organisers—commissioned a review to assess the sustainability and timing of the event.

“After careful consideration, the review committee recommended moving SKFEST from December to the first quarter of each year to reduce the congestion of end-of-year festivities across Southern Kaduna and allow residents to celebrate Christmas with ease,” he said.

He emphasised that SKFEST will no longer hold in December 2025, and a new date in early 2026 will be announced soon. While expressing regret for any inconvenience caused by the schedule change, the CPC assured the public of a more glamorous and impactful festival next year.

The CPC also extended heartfelt appreciation to key dignitaries who have supported SKFEST since its inception.

“We thank the Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the Governor of Kaduna State, and his counterparts from Bayelsa and Plateau States for gracing the last two editions,” Bobai said.

He further acknowledged the presence and support of traditional rulers, dignitaries, cultural troupes, and various stakeholders who have contributed to the growth and visibility of the festival.

“This press briefing would be incomplete without thanking our teeming supporters, community development associations, cultural groups, and the media for their continued support, excellent reportage, and positive image-building for SKFEST,” he added.

The CPC assured all stakeholders, participants, and cultural organisations of a bigger, better, and more vibrant 2026 edition of the Southern Kaduna Festival.