FCMB Reaffirms Ojude Oba As Driver Of Heritage, Enterprise

The group chief executive of FCMB Group, Ladi Balogun, has reaffirmed the Ojude Oba Festival as a powerful platform for cultural heritage and economic enterprise, noting its growing relevance beyond tradition into broader community development.

Balogun stated this in his goodwill message at the 2026 edition of the grand festival held in Ijebu-Ode.

He described the festival as a vibrant showcase of the rich cultural values of the Ijebu people and the Yoruba nation at large, where the Regberegbe age-grade groups displayed elegance, music, and dance in homage to the Awujale of Ijebuland.

The event attracted participants from across Nigeria and the diaspora, including prominent celebrities such as Eniola Badmus, Adeniyi Johnson, Mercy Aigbe, Femi Branch, Idowu Phillips (Mama Rainbow), and Dayo Amusa.

Also present were cultural figures including Salawa Abeni and content creator Samuel Banks, while socialite Farooq Oreagba, FCMB’s cultural ambassador, drew attention with his signature horseback entrance and distinctive presence at the royal pavilion.

Balogun noted that FCMB Group has supported the festival for over two decades, describing the partnership as part of the institution’s long-standing commitment to cultural preservation and inclusive growth.

“For over 20 years, FCMB has remained a committed partner of the Ojude Oba Festival. Our support amplifies a longstanding belief in the importance of preserving heritage, strengthening communities, and creating opportunities for inclusive and sustainable growth,” he said.

According to him, the Ojude Oba Festival has evolved into more than a cultural celebration, becoming a catalyst for enterprise, tourism, and local economic activity.

“Today, Ojude Oba stands as a cultural celebration and a driver of enterprise and economic activity. Its growing impact supports livelihoods, strengthens communities, and reinforces the values that will shape the future of Ijebuland,” Balogun added.

He also paid tribute to the Regent and acting Awujale, Olorogun Sonny Folorunsho Kuku, the Ojude Oba Festival Committee, the Ijebu traditional institution, and the people of Ijebuland for ensuring the success of the 2026 edition.

Balogun noted that the year’s celebration carried special significance as the Ijebu people honoured the legacy of Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, the Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, who passed away in 2025.

He described the late monarch as a transformational leader whose reign shaped modern Ijebuland.

“For over six decades, Kabiyesi embodied disciplined leadership, dignity, and progress.

He strengthened the traditional institution, elevated Ijebuland’s profile on the national stage, and transformed Ojude Oba into a cultural platform that promotes heritage, creativity, and economic growth,” he said.

Balogun further noted that Oba Adetona consistently promoted education, unity, and development, stressing that his legacy continues to influence the cultural and economic direction of Ijebuland.

He also commended the steady leadership of the Acting Awujale during the transition period, describing it as a stabilising force that reflects the resilience of the Ijebu traditional institution.