Ten-year-old Princess Alimot Moredeke Ajoke Osunbunmi, the current Arugba of Osogbo, is set to remain a central figure as the 2026 Osun-Osogbo Festival approaches its final ceremonies on August 7.

The festival, which began on July 27, will culminate in traditional rites and a procession to the Osun Sacred Grove, where the Arugba holds an important ceremonial role in the annual celebration.

Princess Alimot, a member of the Ataoja of Osogbo’s royal family, was selected through the traditional Ifa divination process after the tenure of the previous Arugba ended. Under Yoruba tradition, the role is reserved for an eligible maiden of royal lineage and is regarded as a sacred responsibility.

During the 2025 festival, Alimot led worshippers in the ceremonial procession to the sacred grove. Because of her young age, the sacred calabash traditionally associated with the Arugba’s role was carried by the chief priest.

The Arugba occupies a symbolic position in the Osun-Osogbo Festival, representing the presentation of the community’s prayers and offerings to the Osun deity during the procession.

According to the official festival programme, this year’s activities include traditional rites, cultural performances, music, dance, exhibitions and community events ahead of the concluding ceremonies.

The Osun-Osogbo Festival is held annually in Osogbo, Osun State, and draws worshippers, visitors and cultural enthusiasts from Nigeria and abroad.

At the centre of the celebration is the Osun Sacred Grove, which was inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List in 2005. The grove is regarded as an important site of Yoruba religious and cultural heritage.

The festival is scheduled to conclude on August 7, when devotees and visitors are expected to gather at the sacred grove for the final traditional ceremonies.