Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has said that the state government will conitnue to create opportunities for the people of the state to excel. The governor stated this at the 2025 Ojude Oba Festival in Ijebu Ode on Sunday, as he joined indigenes and guests in Ijebu Ode to mark the 2025 edition of the annual Ojude Oba Festival. The governor stepped out in a gold-coloured agbada laced with fur, matched with a brown cap, coral beads and a walking staff. He described the festival as a dynamic tool for tourism, youth engagement, and entrepreneurship. His appearance drew wide praise, both at the festival ground and on social media, with many describing his look as “regal” and “fitting for the moment.
He described the festival as a dynamic tool for tourism, youth engagement, and entrepreneurship. Abiodun also said that the festival was more than a celebration as well as a symbol of communal harmony and cultural heritage. Ojude Oba, which holds every third day after the Muslim Eid-el-Kabir celebration, is one of the biggest cultural gatherings in the Southwest and draws thousands of spectators annually. In a post shared on his verified Instagram page shortly before the event, Abiodun said the festival remained an important symbol of Ijebuland’s unity, pride and cultural heritage.
“We are getting set as we step out to join our people in celebrating this year’s Ojude Oba Festival — a timeless tradition that showcases the rich cultural heritage, unity, and pride of Ijebuland,” the post read in part.
This year's event witnessed colourful displays by different age-grade groups (regberegbe), traditional horsemen, dancers as well as fashion lovers, with many using the occasion to showcase their status and style through coordinated attires.
The celebration is held in honour of the Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, Oba (Dr) Sikiru Kayode Adetona, GCON, who was also present at the event.
He said his administration was encouraging access in Ijebuland and across Ogun State through the provision of infrastructure, enhancing educational and digital facilities, upgrading the healthcare infrastructure, and supporting local enterprises.
“We’re ensuring that no community is left behind. The vibrant youths of Ijebuland, let me assure you that our government will continue to provide platforms for you to excel.
“As we celebrate Ojude Oba with horses, harmony, and heritage, let us recognise that our rich culture is not just a source of pride but a catalyst for sustainable development,” Abiodun added.
He also said that the greatest strength of the people of the state lies in their unity, values, and shared resolve to build a prosperous Ogun State that leaves no one behind.
“We, therefore, need to work together to build a better and more prosperous future for ourselves, our children, and generations yet unborn. Our greatest strength lies in our unity, values, and our shared resolve to build a prosperous Ogun State that leaves no one behind.
“Let us preserve the peace handed down by our ancestors and look forward to a future filled with opportunities, innovation, and abundance,” he added.
The festival, held at the Awujale Pavilion, under the leadership of the Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, also had in attendance, the Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, who was represented by his deputy, Olayide Adelami; the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa; and two former governors of the state, Chief Olusegun Osoba and Senator Gbenga Daniel, among others.
The event featured a vibrant display of different Yoruba attire made from local fabrics like Adire, Aso Oke, Agbada, and Iro and Buba, worn by different age groups and families.
Over 30 male and female age groups, locally known as ‘Regbe Regbe,’ participated in the cultural parade in distinct attire. Each group took turns to pay homage to the Ajuwale.