Chief Jude Ehigiator, the Oloton of Ekpon and President of EPAM
The Edo People Association of Montreal (EPAM) will celebrate its 22nd anniversary on Saturday, October 31, 2026, with a cultural gathering dedicated to honouring its founders, celebrating Edo heritage and strengthening ties among Edo people in the diaspora.
The event, themed “Honouring Our Roots, Celebrating Our Journey, Shaping Our Destiny,” will take place at The Polish Hall, 2721 Jolicoeur Street, Montréal, Québec H4E 1Y8, Canada. It will bring together Edo sons and daughters, community leaders, distinguished guests and friends of Edo State for an occasion celebrating the assocatiation’s history, achievements and future aspirations.
Founded in 2004, EPAM has played an important role in fostering fellowship, mutual support, cultural preservation and community development among Edo people in Montréal. The anniversary will recognise the dedication of those who established the association and the successive generations of leaders and members who have sustained its mission.
A major highlight will be the recognition of EPAM’s founding fathers, mothers and pioneer leaders, whose vision and sacrifices laid the foundation for the association. Those to be honoured include Honourable Andrew Uzamere, the association’s first Executive President; Mr. Osagie Irabor; Mr. Eric Osagie; Chief Osa Osifo; and other pioneers whose contributions helped build a united Edo community in Montréal.
The celebration will also recognise individuals and supporters whose services, generosity and commitment have contributed to the association’s growth and community impact.
Otunba Olamigoke Awode will chair the occasion, while Mr. Joe Ehizode will serve as Guest Speaker. His address is expected to highlight the importance of community unity, cultural identity and the contributions of Edo people in the diaspora to the development of their communities.
The event will be hosted by Chief Jude Ehigiator, the Oloton of Ekpon Kingdom and President of EPAM, with the support of the executive committee, organising teams and association members. Don Vickay and Barr. Odiana Eriata will serve as Masters of Ceremonies.
Guests will enjoy a programme of Edo cultural displays, music, dance and entertainment, including an Esan acrobatic dance presentation. These performances will showcase the richness of Edo traditions and promote cultural awareness among younger generations.
EPAM anticipates participation from guests across Canada, Nigeria and other parts of the world, including community leaders, professionals, entrepreneurs, cultural organisations and friends of the Edo community. The association also looks forward to representation from the Edo State Government and other prominent figures in public and community life.
Beyond the festivities, the anniversary will provide an opportunity to strengthen connections between Edo communities in the diaspora and their homeland, encourage collaboration and reaffirm a shared commitment to preserving Edo cultural heritage.
As it marks 22 years of service, EPAM invites its members, friends, supporters and the wider public to join the celebration. The association also welcomes sponsorship, goodwill messages and other contributions towards the success of the event.
