Vice President Kashim Shettima, Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, and the Minister of Culture, Art, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa-Musawa, along with other distinguished individuals and tourists, are anticipated to lead the festivities at this year’s Ojude Oba Festival.
This globally renowned event highlights the cultural richness and heritage of the people of Ijebuland and takes place annually on the third day of Eid-el-Adha at Awujale’s pavilion.
This year’s edition of the Ojude Oba Festival will take place on Tuesday, June 18. The Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, serves as the chief host of this vibrant event, where over 100 age-grade groups of males and females (Regberegbes) adorned in magnificent attire, gather to pay their annual homage to the traditional ruler.
According to Punch Online and during a press briefing held on Tuesday at the Heritage Hall of Awujale’s palace, Chief Olu Okuboyejo, Chairman of the Planning Committee for this year’s festival, described the annual event as a gift from the Ijebu nation to Nigeria and the world, symbolizing a remarkable example of religious tolerance, coexistence, and harmony.
Okuboyejo highlighted that the theme for this year’s celebration is “Ojude Oba: Unity and Harmony, Our Gift.” He elaborated that the theme reflects the festival’s consistent emphasis and distinctive features, which have garnered the Ijebus widespread recognition for promoting enduring unity, concord, peace, and harmony among their people.
Furthermore, he noted that Vice President Kashim Shettima has been selected, in accordance with tradition, as the distinguished Nigerian guest of honor for this year’s festivities.
Okuboyejo announced that the Festival Committee is delighted to announce the expected attendance of the Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, Senator Kashim Shettima, who will serve as the Special Guest of Honour.
Also expected are the Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, accompanied by his esteemed consort, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun. Additionally, we anticipate the presence of the Honourable Minister of Culture, Art, and the Creative Economy, Barrister Hannatu Musa-Musawa, among other distinguished guests.
Speaking about the significance of the celebration, Okuboyejo emphasized that the annual festival extends beyond the vibrant display of culture and tradition by Ijebu sons and daughters adorned in their splendid cultural attire.
He revealed that the festival also serves as an occasion for both the Ijebu people and visitors to offer prayers to the Almighty, reflect on their endeavors, engage in community projects, and reconnect with loved ones and acquaintances.
