How firm propels preservation of heritage, strengthens economic enterprise for two decades

Africa’s largest black nation, Nigeria, is blessed with thousands of unique cultures and festivals that stand out among countries of the world. It is therefore no gain saying the fact that the preservation of these cultures is key to the nation’s growth and development.

It is in recognising the unique power of cultural festivals like the Ojude Oba Festival that financial institution like First City Monument Bank Group has for about two decades, positioned itself at the centre of these cultural moments, creating experiences that celebrate identity, foster community and strengthen the bonds that unite Nigerians.

Ladi Balogun, group chief executive of FCMB Group, in his goodwill message at the recently concluded festival, described the Ojude Oba Festival as a driver of cultural celebration and economic enterprise.

According to Balogun, FCMB, which sponsored the fiesta, has been supporting it for about 20 years.

He said, “For over 20 years, FCMB has remained a committed partner of the Ojude Oba Festival. Our support amplifies a longstanding belief in the importance of preserving heritage, strengthening communities, and creating opportunities for inclusive and sustainable growth.

“Today, Ojude Oba stands as a cultural celebration and a driver of enterprise and economic activity. Its growing impact supports livelihoods, strengthens communities, and reinforces the values that will shape the future of Ijebuland.”

He saluted Sonny Folorunsho Kuku, regent, acting Awujale, the Ojude Oba Festival Committee, the Ijebu traditional institution, and all Ijebuland’s people, for the success of the event, which he described as a true symbol of culture.

Balogun said that the 2026 festival held special significance as the Ijebus honoured the legacy of Sikiru Kayode Adetona, CFR, the Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, whose passing in 2025 marked the end of one of the most consequential royal reigns in Nigeria’s history.

“For over six decades, Kabiyesi embodied disciplined leadership, dignity, and progress. He strengthened the traditional institution, elevated Ijebuland’s profile on the national stage, and transformed Ojude Oba into a cultural platform that promotes heritage, creativity, and economic growth.

Read also: Two decades of cultural stewardship: Globacom deepens commitment to Ojude Oba Festival

“Beyond culture, Oba Adetona strongly believed in advancing his people. He championed education, development, unity, and responsible leadership. He understood that preserving tradition must go hand in hand with preparing future generations for opportunity and progress. That vision continues to shape Ijebuland Today,” Balogun said.

The festival, which is an exhibition of the rich cultural values of the Ijebu people and Yorubas in general, showcased Regberegbe age-grade groups who paraded in elegant attire, singing and dancing, all in reverence to the Awujale royalty.

It, however, attracted participants from other parts of the country and the Diaspora, including celebrities who also contributed theatrics to the spectacles at the royal pavilion.

They included Nollywood stars Eniola Badmus, Adeniyi Johnson, Mercy Aigbe, Femi Branch, Idowu Phillips aka Mama Rainbow, and Dayo Amusa. While daughter-of-the-soil waka Queen Salawa Abeni and content creator Samuel Banks were also part of the carnival, the king of steeze himself, Farooq Oreagba, stormed the pavilion with his trademark charismatic horseback entrance. The socialite, who is FCMB’s cultural ambassador, never disappointed in his commanding regalia and acclaimed candour.

The GMD also acknowledged and commended the steady leadership of the Regent and Acting Awujale, Olorogun Sonny Folorunsho Kuku, during the important period of transition.

“His calm stewardship and dedication to continuity reflect the enduring strength and stability of the Ijebu traditional institution. Let us renew our commitment to unity, excellence, and service, values that will honour Oba Sikiru Adetona’s legacy and advance Ijebuland,” he said.