The 2026 Ojude-Oba Festival transformed Ijebu-Ode into a vibrant display of color, glamour, and tradition on Friday, drawing crowds of beautifully adorned men, women, youths, and cultural enthusiasts from across Nigeria and the diaspora. The annual celebration came alive with spectacular horse-riding processions, richly embroidered attires, rhythmic traditional music, and elegant displays by the Regberegbe groups, reaffirming its status as one of Africa's most iconic cultural festivals.
Governor Abiodun Highlights Unity and Tourism
Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun described Ojude-Oba as a powerful symbol of peaceful coexistence, communal harmony, and cultural sophistication. He stated that his administration has deliberately positioned the festival as a flagship of Ogun State's tourism development agenda to harness its cultural and economic potential. The governor noted that the state government is collaborating with stakeholders to expand the festival's global visibility while preserving authentic Ijebu heritage.
“We are building a state that honors its heritage because culture is not only our identity, but also a source of social cohesion and economic opportunity,” Abiodun said. “Today, the economic impact of the festival is visible everywhere as hotels are fully occupied, businesses are flourishing, artisans are engaged, and our youths are being productively empowered.”
Honoring the Late Awujale
The governor noted that the 2026 edition carries deep historical significance as it is the first celebration since the passing of the revered Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona. He paid tribute to the late monarch, describing him as an institution whose 65-year reign transformed traditional leadership and elevated Ijebuland culturally, socially, and politically. Abiodun said the late Awujale made it clear before his transition that the festival must continue to thrive as a sacred cultural institution uniting generations.
Abiodun commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for standing with the people of Ijebuland during the transition period, saying the President's support helped sustain peace and stability. He also called on Nigerians to remember victims of insecurity across the country, offering prayers for families affected by banditry and violence.
Continuity and Cultural Pride
The governor praised the organisers, Regberegbe groups, and the people of Ijebuland for preserving the rich cultural heritage and ensuring the successful hosting of the festival despite the transition period. According to him, Ojude-Oba has evolved from a post-Eid homage-paying gathering into one of Africa's most admired cultural festivals embraced by people of different faiths and backgrounds.
“Today, Ojude-Oba stands as a symbol of unity, honor, continuity, and cultural pride where visitors from across the world gather to witness the splendor of our traditions, the elegance of our attire, and the discipline of the age-grade groups,” he added. Abiodun urged the younger generation to preserve and promote the rich cultural heritage handed down by their forebears, stressing that culture must evolve without losing its essence.
Dignitaries and Planning Committee
Chairman of the Ojude-Oba Planning Committee, Chief Olu Okubadejo, described the festival as a celebration of unity and continuity that allows sons and daughters of Ijebuland to reconnect with their roots. He noted that this year's edition was particularly emotional and historic as it marked the first Ojude-Oba since the demise of Oba Sikiru Adetona, whose reign brought honor and global recognition to Ijebuland.
Among dignitaries present were Deputy Governor of Ogun State Noimot Salako-Oyedele; Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy Hajia Hannatu Musa Musawa; Minister of State for Health Dr. Isiaq Kunle Salako; former Governor of Ogun State Chief Olusegun Osoba; traditional rulers, captains of industry, religious leaders, and other guests.
