Why we maintain strong relationship with ‘Ojude Oba’ — FCMB

As global attention turns to ljebu-Ode, FCMB Group Plc has said that the century-old festival reflects a new generation’s embrace of heritage, identity and cultural confidence.

For more than two decades, FCMB has maintained a steady relationship with the festival, long before social media amplified its visual splendor globally. According to the Banking Group, that commitment has always been rooted in recognising that enduring cultural institutions play an important role in strengthening social cohesion, preserving collective memory, and supporting economic activity.

“At a time when nations are searching for authentic expressions of identity and influence, culture has become one of Africa’s strongest assets,” Olojo said.

He added, “Festivals like Ojude Oba demonstrate that heritage and enterprise are not separate conversations. Culture creates emotional connection, but it also creates opportunity, visibility, confidence and economic value for communities.”

FCMB Group Plc, in a statement, said Ojude Oba represents something even deeper, the reawakening of cultural confidence across Africa.

Speaking ahead of the 2026 Ojude Oba Festival, FCMB said the growing global fascination with the festival reflects a broader shift among Africans at home and in the diaspora who are reconnecting with indigenous identity, heritage and community in ways that feel modern, aspirational and globally relevant.

“Ojude Oba is no longer simply a cultural festival,” said FCMB’s Divisional Head of Corporate Affairs, Diran Olojo.

According to him, “It has become a powerful expression of how African culture continues to evolve without losing its roots. What we are witnessing is the meeting point of heritage and modern identity, where tradition is not preserved as nostalgia, but lived confidently and projected to the world.”This year’s festival, themed “Celebrating the Legacy of Oba Sikiru Adetona,” will be held on May 29 in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State.

The event honours the late Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, whose reign transformed Ojude Oba from a respected local celebration into a globally recognised cultural institution that now attracts visitors, creatives, entrepreneurs, investors, and media attention from around the world.

FCMB noted that the renewed attention around Ojude Oba also reflects a generational shift in how younger Africans engage with tradition — not as an obligation, but as identity, style and self-expression.

The Group also paid tribute to the late Awujale for preserving the dignity and continuity of the institution over decades of social change, while commending the Regent Awujale and Ogbeni Oja of Ijebuland, Olorogun (Dr.) Sonny Kuku, for sustaining the kingdom’s cultural vision and unity during this important transition period.

FCMB further acknowledged the contributions of the Ogun State Government, the Ojude Oba Festival Organising Committee, community leaders, the regberegbe groups and the wider Ijebu community for sustaining one of Nigeria’s most enduring cultural landmarks.

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