Ojude Oba Promotes Culture and Economic Development, Says Ladi Balogun

The Group Chief Executive of FCMB Group, Mr. Ladi Balogun, described the Ojude Oba Festival as a catalyst for cultural celebration and economic activity.

Balogun made the remarks in a goodwill message delivered at the grand festival in Ijebu‑Ode on Saturday, May 30, 2026.

The event showcased the rich cultural heritage of the Ijebu people and the wider Yoruba community, featuring Regberegbe age‑grade groups that paraded in elegant attire while singing and dancing in honour of the Awujale royalty.

Participants from across Nigeria and the diaspora joined the festivities, including Nollywood stars Eniola Badmus, Adeniyi Johnson, Mercy Aigbe, Femi Branch, Idowu Phillips (Mama Rainbow), and Dayo Amusa. Queen Salawa Abeni, content creator Samuel Banks, and FCMB’s cultural ambassador Farooq Oreagba also appeared; Oreagba made a memorable entrance on horseback, wearing his trademark regalia.

According to Balogun, FCMB has sponsored the festival for about 20 years.

“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,” he said.

“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 thanked the Regent, Acting Awujale Olorogun (Dr.) Sonny Folorunsho Kuku, the Ojude Oba Festival Committee, the Ijebu traditional institution, and all of Ijebuland’s people for the event’s success, calling it a true symbol of their culture.

The 2026 festival also held special significance as the Ijebus honoured the legacy of His Royal Majesty Oba (Dr.) 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.

Balogun added, “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.”

“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.”

He also praised the steady leadership of the Regent and Acting Awujale, Olorogun (Dr.) 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.