Ekiti farmers seek tallest ‘Iyan’ pyramid for Guinness World Record
By Samuel Ogunsona
In a bid to showcase Ekiti’s agricultural prowess on the global stage, yam farmers in the state are gearing up to create a massive pyramid of ‘Iyan’ (mashed yam) at the upcoming world Iyan Festival scheduled for December 2025.
The last world Iyan festival was held on December 27, 2024, in Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria, and included celebration of Yoruba culture.
The ambitious project aims to break the Guinness World Record for the largest ‘Iyan’ pyramid, and excitement is palpable as farmers, investors, and government officials work together to make it happen.
Iyan, a staple food in Ekiti and other parts of southwestern Nigeria, is a beloved dish made from boiled and pounded yam. In Ekiti, Iyan is not just a food item but an integral part of the state’s culture and traditions.
The preparation of Iyan is an art form, requiring skill and patience to achieve the right consistency and texture. The upcoming Yam Festival and World Iyan Day celebration are expected to showcase the state’s rich cultural heritage and highlight the importance of yam in Ekiti’s economy and cuisine.
The Ekiti State Government has pledged its support for the yam farmers, recognizing the potential of agriculture to drive economic growth and development in the state.
Governor Biodun Oyebanji has been instrumental in promoting agriculture in Ekiti, implementing initiatives to improve farm productivity, increase access to markets, and provide support to farmers.
The Governor’s efforts have led to increased investment in the agricultural sector, and the state’s farmers are now poised to take advantage of new opportunities and showcase their produce on the global stage.
Agriculture experts and financiers have also committed to supporting the yam farmers, providing technical assistance, funding, and other resources to help them achieve their goal.
The collaboration between farmers, government, and private sector stakeholders is expected to yield positive results, positioning Ekiti as a major player in the global yam market.
As part of the preparations for the Guinness World Record attempt, farmers and investors are inspecting key yam-growing areas in the state, assessing the quality and quantity of yam tubers available for the massive ‘Iyan’ pyramid.
The event is expected to draw large crowds, showcasing Ekiti’s agricultural power and promoting the state’s reputation as a major yam-producing hub..
