The ancient kingdom of Ijebu-Ode became a magnificent tapestry of culture and commerce as the 2025 Ojude Oba festival unfolded in spectacular fashion, coinciding with telecommunications leader Globacom’s remarkable 20-year milestone as principal sponsor. This year’s celebration transcended its traditional roots to become a truly global phenomenon, attracting cultural enthusiasts, diaspora Nigerians, and international tourists who converged on the historic town to witness the vibrant procession of over 75 Regberegbe (age-grade) groups in their resplendent traditional attire, majestic horse riders adorned in colorful regalia, and the majestic presence of the Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona. The festival grounds pulsated with energy as the deep rhythms of traditional gbedu drums blended with modern entertainment, creating a unique cultural symphony that perfectly encapsulated Glo’s two-decade journey of preserving tradition while embracing progress.
Festival Highlights
✔️ Royal Grandeur – The Awujale’s procession featured never-before-seen displays of Ijebu heritage, including rare ancestral artifacts
✔️ Corporate Milestone – Glo’s exhibition booth showcased interactive displays of the festival’s evolution since their 2005 sponsorship began
✔️ Economic Impact – Local artisans reported a 300% increase in sales compared to previous years, with adire makers working round-the-clock
✔️ Cultural Diplomacy – 15 foreign ambassadors attended, signaling growing international recognition of Nigeria’s cultural wealth
The Glo Effect
• ₦2.8 billion invested in cultural preservation since 2005
• 12,000+ jobs created through festival-related activities annually
• Digital platforms introduced to virtualize the experience for global audiences
“What started as sponsorship has become custodianship of our heritage” – Oba Sikiru Adetona
