A vibrant display of culture, tradition and pageantry marked the 2026 Ojude Oba Festival in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, as thousands of people gathered to celebrate one of Nigeria’s most renowned cultural events.
Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, was awash with excitement on Friday as residents, visitors, dignitaries and culture enthusiasts turned out in large numbers for the 2026 Ojude Oba Festival, a celebration renowned for showcasing the rich heritage of the Ijebu people.
The event featured colourful horse-riding parades, traditional music performances, elaborate indigenous attire and captivating displays by various Regberegbe age-grade groups.
Addressing participants at the festival, Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, described Ojude Oba as a powerful symbol of unity, peaceful coexistence and communal harmony.
He noted that the state government had continued to promote the festival as a major component of its tourism and cultural development strategy, highlighting its importance beyond entertainment.
According to the governor, the annual celebration contributes significantly to both cultural preservation and economic growth within Ogun State and across Nigeria.
He emphasised that preserving cultural heritage remains essential, not only for identity and history but also as a driver of economic opportunities.
Abiodun observed that the festival generated substantial benefits for hospitality businesses, artisans, traders and transport operators, adding that the government would sustain partnerships aimed at increasing the festival’s international appeal.
He described this year’s edition as particularly significant, being the first since the death of the Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona.
Paying tribute to the late monarch, the governor said his 65-year reign left a lasting impact on traditional leadership and the development of Ijebuland.
He revealed that the late Awujale had expressed a strong desire for the festival to continue uninterrupted after his passing.
The governor also acknowledged President Bola Tinubu for his support to Ijebuland during the period following the monarch’s transition.
Abiodun called on Nigerians to remember victims of insecurity across the country and offer prayers for families affected by violent incidents.
He further commended the festival organisers and the Regberegbe groups for their commitment to preserving and promoting the cultural values of the Ijebu people.
He described Ojude Oba as a lasting representation of cultural pride, continuity and collective identity, urging younger generations to uphold and advance the traditions inherited from their ancestors.
Earlier, Chairman of the Ojude Oba Planning Committee, Chief Olu Okuboyejo, described the festival as an enduring celebration of heritage and identity.
Okuboyejo noted that the 2026 edition carried deep emotional significance due to the recent passing of Oba Adetona, making the occasion both memorable and historic.
Among those present at the event were Deputy Governor Noimot Salako-Oyedele, Minister of State for Health, Dr Isiaq Salako, former Governor Olusegun Osoba, alongside several traditional rulers and prominent guests.
The festival once again reaffirmed its status as a major cultural gathering, drawing attention to the enduring traditions and vibrant heritage of the Ijebu people.