FCMB Group Plc has reiterated its decades-long commitment to the Ojude Oba Festival, recognising it as a vital cultural asset that fosters trust, strengthens identity, and boosts trade and investment through arts, tourism, and hospitality

Ojude Oba Festival continues to receive steadfast support from FCMB Group Plc, which has reaffirmed its long-standing commitment to the event.

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The financial services firm describes the festival as a vital cultural asset that builds trust, reinforces shared identity, and drives trade and investment through arts, crafts, tourism, and hospitality.

Speaking in Ijebu-Ode ahead of the 2025 edition of the festival, Mr. Diran Olojo, FCMB’s Divisional Head of Corporate Affairs, stated that the firm views the event as a significant platform for cultural expression and a catalyst for inclusive and sustainable growth.

“Ojude Oba reflects the type of society we’re working to build, one that values legacy, unity, and long-term prosperity. Our support, which began nearly 25 years ago, is rooted in the vision of our late founder, Otunba Olasubomi Balogun, who believed in the role of culture in enterprise development and community advancement. This belief remains a cornerstone of our purpose – to connect people, capital and markets,” Olojo explained.

This year’s festival, themed ‘Ojude Oba: Celebrating Our Roots, Preserving Our Future,’ is scheduled for Sunday, June 8, 2025. FCMB has pledged to deepen its engagement by actively participating in traditional activities, including the regberegbe parade and the traditional homage to the Awujale, the revered traditional ruler of Ijebuland, Oba (Dr.) Sikiru Kayode Adetona.

Olojo noted that the bank’s involvement extends beyond mere sponsorship. “We see our role as helping to reinforce traditions that have socio-economic value. Festivals like Ojude Oba create demand across tourism, hospitality, and small business sectors while preserving the culture that binds us,” he added.

Chief Olu Okuboyejo, Chairman of the Ojude Oba Festival Organising Committee, praised corporate sponsors like FCMB, noting that the event brilliantly showcases cultural continuity and religious harmony.

“This year, 25 warrior families will demonstrate their horse-riding prowess alongside colourful regberegbe displays. The festival remains a gift from Ijebuland to Nigeria and beyond,” he proudly stated.

Sesan Fagbayi, Ogun State’s Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, affirmed that the state government is focused on expanding the festival’s international appeal and economic significance.

‘Ojude Oba is not just a celebration – it’s a strategic cultural asset. We’re working to ensure this year’s edition delivers lasting value,’ he stressed.

With origins dating back over a century, the Ojude Oba festival attracts thousands of participants and observers from Nigeria and the diaspora.

It has evolved into a significant convergence of traditional leadership, business, and communal identity, highlighting the powerful intersection of culture and development.