The 2025 edition of the Globacom-sponsored Ojude Oba Festival, held in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State, not only celebrated rich cultural heritage but also marked two decades of unwavering support by the telecommunications giant. This year’s festival further evolved into a powerful platform for economic empowerment and youth recognition, with life-changing prizes distributed to members of the Ijebu community.
The event, which drew dignitaries from across Nigeria, including Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, Minister of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy Barr. Hannatu Musa-Musawa, and Olorogun Sunny Kuku, Ogbeni Oja of Ijebuland, spotlighted Globacom’s commitment to community development, culture, and entrepreneurship.
Life-Changing Rewards for Community Service and Enterprise
In a historic highlight, two brand-new cars were awarded. One recipient, Opeoluwa Osisanwo, a 52-year-old member of Egbe Tobalase Okunrin and Secretary of the Ojude Oba Planning Committee, was nominated by the Ijebu community for his exemplary service. Grateful and surprised, he remarked:
“I never knew people were watching me. I was just serving my land of birth to the best of my ability.”
The second car went to Idowu Olabisi, a trader from Ijebu Igbo, who described the gift as a miraculous Eid blessing, stating she never imagined such a reward would come her way.
Entrepreneurs Equipped for Growth
In a bid to bolster local entrepreneurship, four brand-new tricycles (Keke) were awarded to:
- Hassan Toheeb, businessman, Ijebu Itele
- Adenike Olanrewaju, plank seller, Molipa
- Gazal Temitope, trader, Olisa
- Lawal Tosin, carpenter, Ijebu Ode
In addition, sewing machines, grinding machines, and power generators were given to other participants to enhance their businesses and livelihoods.
Leaders Applaud Cultural and Economic Impact
Governor Dapo Abiodun praised the over 60-year reign of the Awujale, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, calling it a legacy of visionary leadership and development. Minister Hannatu Musa-Musawa described Ojude Oba as a shining example of Nigeria’s cultural richness and resilience, adding that it plays a vital role in preserving traditions for future generations.
Ojude Oba on the Global Stage
With Globacom’s strategic investment, the Ojude Oba Festival is now on track to achieve UNESCO heritage recognition, reflecting its elevation from a local tradition to an event of global cultural significance. The festival now doubles as a springboard for empowering entrepreneurs, celebrating leadership, and uniting the community through heritage and innovation.
Globacom’s continued sponsorship, now in its 20th year, is not just a show of support for cultural festivities—it is a transformative force for social and economic progress in Ijebuland and beyond.
