Ojude Oba: How cultural heritage of Ijebu-land points to unlocking national renaissance

Every year, sons and daughters of Ijebu-land converge on Ijebu Ode for a home coming tagged, ‘Ojude Oba.’

The annual festival is hosted by the paramount ruler of Ijebu-land, Sikiru Kayode Adetona, the late Awujale of Ijebu-land – where sons, daughters, and well-wishers all pay homage to the Oba; three days after the Islamic Eid al-Adha (Ileya) celebration.

Themed, ‘Ojude Oba 2026: Celebrating the legacy of Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona,’ this year’s festival honoured the late Awujale of Ijebu-land, whose leadership and transformative contributions left an enduring legacy in Ijebu-land and across Nigeria.

However, the festival was celebrated this year without the late Awujale nor any Oba in his place for the first time. This act, observers say points to the institutional nature of the festival and its uniqueness.

As one of Nigeria’s most celebrated cultural gatherings, the Ojude Oba festival continues to unite generations of Ijebu sons and daughters, friends, and admirers of the culture from across Nigeria and beyond.

With a history spanning more than a century, the festival remains a powerful expression of identity, tradition, unity, and communal pride.

“The people of Ijebu-land deserve commendation for their unity, resilience, and commitment to preserving our rich cultural heritage for future generations,” Dapo Abiodun, Ogun State governor stated in his address.

He reaffirmed his administration’s support for the festival and commended the various Regberegbe groups and the families of the warlords whose participation continues to define the uniqueness of the celebration.

Abiodun described Ojude Oba as a powerful symbol of religious harmony, peaceful coexistence, and communal unity, noting that the festival has evolved into a major platform for tourism, economic growth, cultural pride, and social inclusion.

He further reiterated his administration’s commitment to implementing policies and initiatives that will create greater economic opportunities for the people of Ijebu-land.

Read also: Blending Tradition with Technology: Seaman’s Schnapps lights up the sky at Ojude Oba 2026

One of the highlights of this year’s celebration was the corporate performance by the Rite Foods activation team, whose dance presentation captivated guests and added further excitement to the festivities.

The performance drew admiration from dignitaries and guests alike, contributing to the energetic atmosphere that makes Ojude Oba a unique cultural spectacle.

At the Rite Foods pavilion, guests were treated to the company’s extensive range of hospitality, as the brand reaffirmed its commitment to preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of Ijebu-land.

“The Ojude Oba Festival represents unity, heritage, and community spirit. As a proudly Nigerian company with deep roots in Ijebu-land through our operations in Ososa, we remain committed to supporting initiatives that preserve our culture and strengthen the bonds that connect our people,” Seleem Adegunwa, the managing director of Rite Foods Limited, stated.

He added that the sponsorship of the festival reflects the company’s enduring commitment to celebrating and preserving the cultural values of the Ijebu people.

Olaniyi Aderuku, the brand manager, Fearless Energy Drink, noted that Rite Foods’ relationship with the people of Ijebu-land extends beyond business.

“Our connection with Ijebu-land is built on shared values and mutual growth. We believe in celebrating the identity of the people and contributing meaningfully to the preservation of their cultural heritage,” he stated.

Aderuku added that Fearless Energy Drink’s brand values of courage, ambition, self-expression, and confidence resonate strongly with the spirit of the Ojude Oba festival.

“Ojude Oba embodies fearlessness in many forms—from its spectacular fashion and horsemanship displays to the creativity, confidence, and pride of a people who continue to honour their heritage while embracing the future,” Aderuku stated.