FCMB Group Plc applauds annual Ojude Oba festival as symbol of Africa’s cultural identity

FCMB Group Plc has described the annual Ojude Oba Festival as a powerful symbol of Africa’s evolving cultural identity, saying the globally celebrated event reflects a growing reconnection among Africans with their heritage, traditions and sense of belonging.

The financial institution made the remarks ahead of the 2026 edition of the festival, scheduled to hold, on May 29, in Ijebu-Ode.

Speaking on the significance of the festival, FCMB’s Divisional Head of Corporate Affairs, Diran Olojo, said Ojude Oba has grown beyond a traditional cultural gathering into an international symbol of African pride and identity.

According to him, the festival represents a meeting point between heritage and modern identity, where culture is preserved while remaining relevant to younger generations and global audiences.

“Ojude Oba is no longer simply a cultural festival,” Olojo said. “It has become a powerful expression of how African culture continues to evolve without losing its roots.”

The 2026 festival, themed: “Celebrating the Legacy of Oba Sikiru Adetona”, is expected to honour the late Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, whose reign elevated the festival into a globally recognised cultural event attracting tourists, investors, creatives and members of the African diaspora.

FCMB noted that it has maintained a relationship with the festival for more than two decades, long before the event gained widespread international visibility through social media.

The group stated that its support for Ojude Oba is rooted in the belief that strong cultural institutions help preserve collective memory, strengthen social cohesion and stimulate economic growth.

The bank further observed that the festival has become a major driver of economic activities across sectors, including hospitality, fashion, transportation, photography, entertainment, tourism and trade.

Olojo said culture has emerged as one of Africa’s strongest assets at a time when nations are seeking authentic expressions of identity and influence.

READ ALSO: Tourism: ICRC okays $21m development of Jabi Lake in Abuja

He added that festivals such as Ojude Oba demonstrate that culture and enterprise can work together to create opportunities, visibility and economic value for communities.

FCMB also highlighted the growing interest of younger Africans in cultural traditions, noting that many now see heritage as a form of identity and self-expression rather than obligation.

The bank referenced the growing popularity of cultural figure Farooq Oreagba, whose appearances at the festival have attracted global attention and reinforced the event’s contemporary appeal.

The group paid tribute to the late Awujale for preserving the institution over decades and also commended the Regent Awujale and Ogbeni Oja of Ijebuland, Sonny Kuku, for sustaining the kingdom’s cultural vision during the transition period.

Also speaking, Chairman of the Ojude Oba Festival Organising Committee, Olu Okuboyejo, described the festival as a symbol of continuity, peaceful coexistence and collective pride among the Ijebu people.

He disclosed that about 90 age-grade groups and 25 warrior families are expected to participate in this year’s celebrations.

Ojude Oba, one of Nigeria’s oldest and most celebrated cultural festivals, has continued to gain international recognition as a showcase of African heritage, fashion, unity and cultural diplomacy.