As the date draws near, the ancient city of Ijebu Ode in Ogun State is already teeming with life and colour in anticipation of the 2025 edition of the renowned Ojude Oba Festival, scheduled to hold on Sunday, June 8. Renowned for its grandeur, cultural richness, and deeply rooted tradition, the festival has continued to attract a large influx of both local and international tourists eager to witness one of Nigeria’s most iconic cultural events.
By Thursday evening, Ijebu Ode had already begun to feel the pulse of the festival, with hotels fully booked, roads bustling with visitors, and traders showcasing a variety of traditional wares, attires, and souvenirs. The air is thick with excitement as various age-grade groups (Regberegbes), cultural troupes, and equestrian families put finishing touches to their preparations, promising yet another unforgettable spectacle.
The Ojude Oba Festival is an annual post-Eid-el-Kabir celebration held in honour of the Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, CFR. It is a day where the Ijebu people and their descendants at home and in the diaspora converge to pay homage to their revered monarch. The event showcases Ijebu heritage through elegant displays of fashion, cultural dances, musical performances, and, most famously, the magnificent horse-riding processions by noble families.
For first-time visitors, while the excitement is palpable and the sights undeniably breathtaking, it is essential to exercise caution. The sheer volume of people expected at the festival means navigating large crowds, managing personal belongings, and maintaining situational awareness at all times. It is advisable to move in groups where possible, remain vigilant in congested areas, and follow the guidance of local security operatives and marshals who will be deployed to maintain order and safety.
Security agencies, including the police, civil defence corps, and traffic management teams, have assured the public of adequate coverage throughout the festival period. Organisers have also encouraged attendees to comply with laid-down guidelines to ensure a smooth and peaceful celebration.
In addition to its cultural value, the festival provides a significant economic boost to the local economy. Artisans, food vendors, transport operators, and hospitality businesses experience a surge in patronage, reaffirming Ojude Oba’s status not just as a cultural celebration, but as a platform for economic empowerment and tourism development.
This year’s edition promises an elevated experience with the presence of high-profile guests, sponsors, and dignitaries from across the country. As the countdown continues, Ijebu Ode is set to dazzle the world once again with its regal display of unity, tradition, and communal pride.
Welcome to Ojude Oba 2025 — a festival of beauty, culture, and honour.
