Every year, when the drums roll and horses thunder through Ijebu-Ode, the Ojude Oba Festival reminds us that culture isn’t a museum piece— it’s alive. It moves, dazzles, and speaks in colour, pride, and spectacle. It’s where the Ijebu gather in their thousands to salute the throne and display a heritage stitched in regal fabrics, choreography, and pageantry. Long a symbol of loyalty, Ojude Oba has, in recent years, grown into something bigger: a global stage where tradition shakes hands with fashion, identity, and cultural diplomacy.
We have one of the world’s most beautiful, richly layered cultures—but often wonder if we honour it as deliberately as we should.
In the past few years, Ojude Oba has reemerged as a celebration within Ijebu land and a national cultural moment. What’s made it even more compelling is how passionately young Nigerians are embracing it. Suddenly, heritage is aspirational again. Tradition is trending, not in a performative sense, but in a way that truly matters: young people dressing up not just to impress but to belong, connect, and participate. In this issue, we turn our lens on the horse riders of Ojude Oba—the men (and yes, woman) who mount these majestic animals and carry centuries of history with every procession. Often admired for their regalia and grandeur, they’re rarely asked what it means to ride. So we asked. And in their answers, we found something more meaningful than aesthetics: a deep sense of identity, responsibility, and generational pride. It’s a perspective we don’t hear often enough, and we’re honoured to share it.
If this story stirs something in you—perhaps a curiosity about your roots or an urge to experience more of Nigeria beyond your familiar borders—then you’ll want to read “Other Festivals in Nigeria Worth Knowing.” Not just a list, but a celebration of our cultural calendar. From the regal choreography of the Durbar, and the communal thrill of the Argungu Fishing Festival. These are not just local ceremonies; they are living archives of who we are, waiting to be experienced by anyone willing to look beyond the surface.
You don’t have to be in Ijebu to attend Ojude Oba or Igbo to witness the New Yam Festival. Culture isn’t exclusive—it’s an invitation. An open door to understanding, appreciating, and participating in the many stories that make up this country. The more we engage with them—through travel, storytelling, preservation—the more we build a tourism culture rooted in leisure and meaning. There is a role for government in this, certainly. But there is also a role for each of us: to show up, to ask questions, and to explore this country with the same wonder we reserve for everywhere else. Here’s to curiosity, celebration, and finding joy in the places we come from.
8 REASONS WHY WE’RE OBSESSED WITH THE KOME OSALOR’S LILY DRESS
Some dresses simply fill a wardrobe gap, and then there are those rare pieces that instantly elevate your style game. The Lily Dress by designer Kome Osalor belongs firmly in the second category. It’s that one dress you slip into and suddenly feel like you’ve stepped into the best version of yourself— confident, chic, and completely effortless. Here’s why we can’t get enough of it:
By Funke Babs-Kufeji
1. Effortlessly Elegant
The Lily Dress nails that sweet spot between sophistication and simplicity. Its clean, flattering silhouette is polished without being over the top, giving you feminine elegance that looks refined but never feels fussy. It’s elegance, without the hard work.
2. Day-to-Night Ready
This is the definition of versatility. With just a change of shoes or accessories, the Lily Dress moves seamlessly from a sunny brunch date to an evening cocktail outing. It’s one of those rare pieces that actually keeps up with your lifestyle.
3. Flattering on Everybody
Cut and tailored with precision, this dress knows exactly where to skim and where to hug. It celebrates curves without being restrictive and looks just as beautiful on different shapes and sizes. At its core, it’s designed to make women feel confident and powerful.
4. A Timeless Investment
Fashion trends may come and go, but the Lily Dress isn’t chasing them—it’s setting itself apart. Its timeless design means you’ll keep reaching for it years from now, and it will still look just as stylish as the first time you wore it. Think of it as the kind of piece that becomes part of your personal signature style.
5. Colour Options that Pop
Whether you’re a soft pastel lover or someone who thrives in bold jewel tones, the Lily Dress comes in shades that speak to every mood, season, and skin tone. It’s more than just colour—it’s self-expression tailored to you.
6. Minimal Effort, Maximum Impact
We all need those “throw on and go” pieces that make us look like we spent an hour planning our outfit. The Lily Dress does exactly that— effortlessly put together, even on your busiest mornings.
7. Loved by Style Girls
The dress has already earned its stamp of approval from celebrities, influencers, and fashion-forward women who style it with everything from sneakers to stilettos. When the style crowd co-signs a look, you know it’s the real deal.
8. It Feels as Good as It Looks
What good is a stunning dress if you can’t breathe in it? Luckily, the Lily Dress is as comfortable as it is beautiful. The fabric is breathable, lightweight, and easy to move in, proving that true style should never come at the cost of comfort.
EXECUTIVE EDITOR
Zenith Bank Celebrates 35 Years with Glamorous Chairman’s Dinner
KATTY
ZENITH BANK CELEBRATES 35 YEARS WITH GLAMOROUS CHAIRMAN’S DINNER
Zenith Bank Plc marked its 35th anniversary in grand style with a commemorative Chairman’s Dinner at the Eko Convention Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos, on Friday, August 15, 2025. The glamorous event brought together pioneer customers, long-serving staff, regulators, partners, and friends of the bank to celebrate over three decades of excellence and innovation.
In recognition of loyalty and service, the bank honoured pioneer customers and staff who have served for 25 years and above with commemorative plaques and awards.
The evening attracted an array of dignitaries, including Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima, GCON; Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa; Taraba State Governor Agbu Kefas; Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum; and Deputy Governor of Delta State, Monday Onyeme, who represented Governor Sheriff Oborevwori. Business mogul Alhaji Aliko Dangote, former governors Peter Obi and Udom Emmanuel, and other eminent personalities also graced the celebration.
Group Managing Director/CEO, Dame Dr. Adaora Umeoji, OON, applauded the Founder and Chairman, Jim Ovia, CFR, hailing him as “the Godfather of modern banking and Nostradamus of our time” for his vision and integrity in building Zenith into a globally recognised financial powerhouse.
Vice President Shettima praised Ovia for embedding innovation into Nigerian banking long before it became the global standard, while Ovia himself expressed deep gratitude to customers, regulators, shareholders, and the Zenith family for their trust and commitment.
Founded in 1990, Zenith Bank has grown from modest beginnings to become one of Africa’s leading financial institutions, with a strong presence across Nigeria and international subsidiaries in the UK, Ghana, Sierra Leone, Gambia, France, UAE, and a representative office in China.
DENIM ON DENIM, BUT MAKE IT CHIC
Denim is the one fabric that refuses to quit. It’s survived flares, low-rise nightmares, high-waist comebacks, and even bedazzled pockets. But let’s be honest: nothing divides fashion lovers quite like the denim-on-denim look. Some call it the “Canadian tuxedo.” Others still think of Britney and Justin in matching denim at the 2001 AMAs (iconic, but maybe not exactly what you’re going for). The truth? Denim-on-denim has officially entered its fun era. No more rules, no more side-eyes—it’s all about playing with it until it feels like you. Here’s how to nail the look without looking like you’re heading to a cowboy convention.
1. Mix Your Washes Like a Cocktail
Wearing head-to-toe denim doesn’t mean you have to look like a giant blueberry. The trick is mixing washes.
Pair a light denim shirt with dark indigo jeans or throw a black denim jacket over faded boyfriend jeans. Think of it as shading: the contrast makes the outfit pop and gives it dimension.
2. Play with Shapes
If your top is fitted, go for slouchy bottoms. If your jeans are wide and dramatic, balance them with a cropped or tailored jacket. Denim-on-denim works best when the proportions aren’t fighting for attention.
Imagine oversized mom jeans paired with a structured cropped jacket—or a floor-sweeping denim skirt with a snug button-down. Suddenly, it’s less “outfit disaster” and more “effortlessly stylish human being spotted at a Lagos café.”
3. Add a Fun Twist
One way to make denim-on-denim look chic is to add a touch of something unexpected. A sparkly belt, neon heels, or chunky gold jewellery will instantly shift the vibe. Denim is neutral—it loves a statement accessory. Even shoes can change the story. Sneakers make it casual, stilettos take it sexy, and cowboy boots? Well, that’s one way to fully commit.
4. Don’t Fear the Matching Set
Sometimes, fashion is about going all in. A denim matching set (jacket + skirt, shirt + jeans, or even a full jumpsuit) can be ridiculously chic if styled with confidence. To keep it fun, break it up with accessories—a bright bag, bold sunglasses, or even a dramatic red lip. It’s giving “runway model off-duty,” not “wardrobe malfunction.”
5. Go Beyond Blue
Who says denim has to be blue? White denim-on-denim feels fresh and vacation-ready. Black on black? Rockstar energy. Colored denim—think red, pastel pink, or even lime green—makes you look like the life of the party. The point is: denim doesn’t always have to play safe.
6. Layer Like You Mean It
Denim-on-denim doesn’t have to mean just jeans and a jacket. Have fun with layers. Try a denim corset over a white shirt, a denim trench over shorts, or even a denim bucket hat for extra flavour. Fashion should feel playful, not rigid.
7. Own the Attitude
At the end of the day, denim-on-denim is more about attitude than fabric. If you wear it shyly, it’ll swallow you. But if you walk in like, “Yes, I’m wearing two (maybe three) layers of denim, and yes, I look amazing,” people will believe it. Confidence is the final styling trick—and it’s free.
THE TOUGH LOVE GUIDE EVERY YOUNG WOMAN NEEDS
By Funke Babs-Kufeji
Growing up, no one really prepares you for the unpolished side of womanhood. You hear about chasing dreams, finding love, and building a career—but the silent lessons, the ones that shape your backbone, rarely get spoken out loud. Life has a way of teaching them through heartbreaks, disappointments, and moments where you have to choose yourself. These truths may sting at first, but once you embrace them, they become your armour. They’re not about making you hard, but about making you wiser, sharper, and unshakable. Here are eight lessons every young woman must learn—sometimes the hard way.
Learn to walk away.
There’s nothing weak about leaving. In fact, it’s one of the boldest acts of self-respect you can master. Whether it’s a relationship, a friendship, or a job, staying where you no longer belong drains you of peace and purpose. Silence and distance often speak louder than endless arguments. Protect your spirit—sometimes walking away is the most powerful response.
Not everyone is your best friend.
The word “bestie” is thrown around so loosely these days that it’s lost its value. Real friendship takes time, consistency, and loyalty—it’s about who shows up even when it’s inconvenient. Be warm but guard your space. Not everyone cheering for you wants to see you win. Keep your circle small, intentional, and honest.
Never pity a man.
Pity is not love—it’s a trap. The moment you start excusing laziness, lack of ambition, or immaturity because you “feel sorry” for someone, you set yourself up for heartbreak.
A man is not a project to fix. Love should be a partnership built on effort and respect, not an endless charity drive at your expense.
Stop posting your whole life online.
Social media isn’t your diary. Not everyone deserves front-row access to your private moments, your struggles, or your plans. Mystery is magnetic. Protect what matters— your peace, your relationships, your wins and losses. Oversharing invites judgment and dilutes the beauty of living for yourself, not for likes.
Know your worth before they try to price you.
Life will constantly try to bargain
your value—in the workplace, in relationships, even among friends.
If you don’t define your own worth, someone else will undervalue it. Hold yourself in such high esteem that discounts are not an option. Selfawareness is not arrogance—it’s survival.
Your body is not a bargaining chip
Your beauty, your curves, your body— they are yours to honour, not trade. Using sexuality as your only power is short-lived. The women who hold influence for a lifetime are those who lead with intellect, values, and character. Respect yourself enough not to negotiate your body for validation or opportunity.
Time is not replaceable. Money can be made again. Energy can be renewed. Time? Once it’s gone, it’s gone forever. Be intentional about who and what you give your hours to. Don’t waste years on toxic partners, draining friendships, or habits that don’t serve your future. Treat your time like the luxury it is.
Confidence beats beauty every time.
Beauty might get you through the door, but confidence keeps you remembered. It’s in the way you walk, the way you speak, the way you hold your head high. Looks fade. Trends die. But a woman rooted in self-belief and discipline never goes unnoticed. Build yourself from the inside out—that’s the kind of beauty no one can strip away.
ADELAJA ON PHOTOGRAPHY, HERITAGE, AND HUMANITY
World Photography Day is more than a date on the calendar — it’s a reminder of the power of images to preserve memory, shape identity, and carry culture forward. In Nigeria, one of the voices leading this charge is Sope Adelaja, a photographer whose lens moves between fashion, lifestyle, portraiture, and deeply cultural storytelling. From documenting rural women and the land in his solo exhibition In Her Hands, to cofounding Recreate Africa, a platform reimagining how African stories are told, Sope’s work continues to bridge the personal and the collective. In this interview with Ayo Lawal, he reflects on the role of photography in safeguarding heritage, the responsibility of authenticity in an AI era, and the timelessness of images that hold truth.
World Photography Day is all about the power of the image. For you, how can photography keep culture and heritage alive in a world that’s changing so fast?
For me, photography keeps culture and heritage alive because it turns memory into something tangible and shareable. It holds on to what might otherwise slip quietly away. In today’s rapidly changing world, shaped by digital transformation and globalisation, photographs become living artefacts, preserving traditions, stories, and cultural practices on the edge of being forgotten.
You started out shooting lifestyle, fashion, and portraits. How did those early days shape the way you see and capture culture now?
Those early days shaped my eye in ways still carry with me. Shooting lifestyle, fashion, and portraits trained me to notice the small cues — posture, gesture, texture, light — that communicate identity without words. Fashion taught me how style can be both personal and cultural, while portraits demanded patience, the discipline of waiting until
someone’s true self emerged. So when I turned more intentionally to culture and heritage, I didn’t have to unlearn my way of seeing; simply widened the frame. The same instincts that guided me in a studio now move with me into public spaces, festivals, rural and indigenous communities, where pay attention to the textures of culture, the choices people make to express themselves, and the quiet rituals that carry meaning.
A lot of your work highlights people, traditions, and even spiritual spaces. What pulls you toward those kinds of stories?
Before I see myself as an artist, I see myself as human, and that remains at the centre of my work. Through photography, I examine both myself and the world around me, seeking to understand how identity, memory, and heritage shape the ways we live. That perspective, deeply personal yet outward-looking, is what continually draws me to people, traditions, and spiritual spaces. They carry traces of the past while shaping how we imagine the future, offering a kind of continuity that fascinates me.
With AI now creating and altering images, do you feel photography has a new responsibility when it comes to protecting authenticity and legacy?
Yes, absolutely. The rise of AI-generated imagery has transformed the landscape of photography. Photography’s responsibility hasn’t shifted, but the stakes have. AI can now produce strikingly realistic images in seconds, blurring the line between what’s captured and what’s fabricated. But what it cannot reproduce is the human element: the emotional intent, ethical choices, and lived context that shape a photograph. That human touch — the imperfection, the intuition, the creative journey — remains irreplaceable.
Your trip to Senegal gave us such rich images of people, art, and spirituality. What moments from that trip really stayed with you?
Honestly, so many moments from Senegal stayed with me. Meeting people from all over the world who now call Senegal home, and seeing people not just living but thriving, expanded my sense of community. One place can’t forget is SaintLouis, the former capital. The buildings, the fishermen heading out, the everyday rhythm of life — everything felt like a
living archive. It was beautiful and grounding. Another striking discovery was how strong the surf culture is in Dakar. I met people who had relocated there from across the world, just to be close to the waves. In a city surrounded by water, that scene built its own community. It reminded me that when culture is nurtured, it transforms places and brings people together.
When you’re photographing a community or tradition, how do you strike that balance between making it visually striking and keeping it authentic?
For me, authenticity always comes first. begin by listening, spending time, and allowing people to guide how they want to be seen. The visual strength grows out of that trust. The balance doesn’t come from adding something “extra, “ but from paying close attention to what’s already extraordinary. That way, the photograph can strike the eye while remaining honest to the story it holds.
You co-founded Recreate Africa. How has that platform helped you tell African cultural stories in fresh ways?
Recreate Africa was born out of a desire to challenge the single story often told about the continent and to show Africa beyond stereotypes. Founding it with likeminded peers gave us more than a platform to display work — it became a space to experiment with form, dialogue, and collaboration. Designers, artists, filmmakers, writers, researchers, and community members from across Africa all contributed their own angles. That collective mix created layered narratives with a freshness and depth that one person alone could not achieve. For me, it meant I was no longer working in isolation. could test new modes of presentation — digital archives, exhibitions, campaigns, community conversations — ensuring stories didn’t just speak about people but returned to the spaces they came from. Most importantly, Recreate Africa has shown that African culture is not frozen in the past or limited to tradition. It is alive, inventive, and constantly in motion.
Your work is part of Iconic Women: From Everyday Life to Global Heroes at the Muhammad Ali Centre. What does it mean to see African women’s stories on such a global stage?
Seeing African women’s stories honoured on a global stage at the Muhammad Ali Centre is deeply meaningful. These photographs, chosen from over 470 submissions across 65 countries, go beyond aesthetics. They celebrate women whose everyday lives and extraordinary achievements are too often overlooked. For me, it’s a way of carrying those narratives forward with honesty and dignity. I’m grateful for the recognition, but even more encouraged that these images can travel, teach, and open space for more voices to be heard.
The exhibition runs until 2026 — what do you hope people walk away thinking or feeling after seeing your images there?
When people step out of the exhibition, I hope they leave with more than an image lingering in their minds. want them to carry a quiet recognition, the kind that reshapes how we see. Too often, the stories of African women are reduced to headlines of struggle or silence. Instead, I want visitors to remember them as I encounter them: bearing traditions with grace, imagining change with courage, and sustaining communities in ways both visible and unseen. If they walk away with the fuller truth — that African women are not defined by absence but by presence, resilience, and vision — then these images will have done their work. Your recent solo exhibition, In Her Hands, focused on rural Nigerian women and the land.
How do you see the link between environmental stories and cultural preservation?
Environmental stories and cultural preservation are inseparable, especially in rural African contexts where land, women, and tradition converge. The environment is not only a resource but a living archive: farming practices, harvest rituals, and the knowledge women pass down preserve culture as much as they sustain life. These narratives keep memory alive, practised daily, carried in stories, and felt across generations. When landscapes change, those practices — and the wisdom they hold — are at risk. In Her Hands documents this fragile link, showing how the care women extend to the land is also the care they give to heritage, safeguarding both what is lived and what must be remembered.
In a world overflowing with images, what makes a photo feel timeless — something future generations might look at and feel?
A photograph that feels timeless often reflects the photographer’s mindful presence — that stillness or quiet reflection before clicking the shutter. Such images capture honesty, emotion, and universal human experience. Nothing in them feels trendy or accidental; every detail belongs. Even if future generations don’t know the place or context, they’ll recognise the truth in it, they’ll feel something that lasts.
For photographers who want to move past “pretty pictures” and really tell stories that honour heritage, what’s your best advice?
Put the camera down first. Heritage isn’t only in monuments or archives; it lives in daily rituals, gestures, and stories. Begin with research and patience. Talk, listen, and ask, “What matters to you?” not “What looks good?” Slow down and build trust. When you finally raise the camera, let dignity and authenticity guide the frame. That’s when images move beyond “pretty pictures” to become records of lived truth, carrying meaning that endures long after the moment has passed.
What cultural or artistic stories are still on your bucket list, and where do you see your journey going next?
I don’t want to give too much away just yet, but you can expect more stories from Africa and beyond — stories rooted in real people and real places, told with the intimacy of lived experience.
VODOO FESTIVAL
IN HER HANDS
OJUDE OBA CELEBRATING THE HORSE RIDERS
Every year, when the drums roll and horses thunder through Ijebu-Ode, the Ojude Oba Festival reminds us that culture isn’t a museum piece— it’s alive. It moves, dazzles, and speaks in colour, pride, and spectacle. It’s where the Ijebu gather in their thousands to salute the throne and display a heritage stitched in regal fabrics, choreography, and pageantry. Long a symbol of loyalty, Ojude Oba has, in recent years, grown into something bigger: a global stage where tradition shakes hands with fashion, identity, and cultural diplomacy.
Beyond the grandeur, individuals give the festival its pulse: the riders, the regberegbes, the fashion custodians, and the voices shaping how the world reads this tradition. This Week, Azuka Ogujiuba sat with six figures who personify that evolution— Adesile Ajigboteso, Yusuf Ayokunle Dongo, Folarin Kuku, Omoba Adeboye Kasali, Faruq Oreagba, and Adedoyin Alatishe. Together, they trace the living archive that Ojude Oba has become—memory in motion, style with spine, heritage that refuses to sit still.
Ojude Oba is a proud symbol of Ijebu heritage. What does the festival mean to you personally as a custodian of culture and tradition?
For me, Ojude Oba is deeply personal. It’s about carrying forward the legacy of my grandfather, Balogun Alatishe, a man whose life embodied loyalty, honour, and service to the Ijebu people. His footsteps remind me that tradition is not just something we inherit, it’s something we must live and protect. As a custodian of culture, I see Ojude Oba as both a celebration and a responsibility. It’s where we reconnect with our roots, reinforce our bonds, and recommit to preserving the heritage that defines us. The gathering of Balogun and Eleshin families, the Regberegbe, the homage to the Awujale, and the unity across faith and generations all reflect the depth of who we are. Ojude Oba reminds us we are part of a larger story, one that began long before us and must continue long after. It is that bridge between past and the future.
What values or customs rooted in Ojude Oba do you believe should be preserved at all costs, and why?
One of the most important values is the inclusive spirit of Ojude Oba. The festival brings together Muslims, Christians, traditionalists, and people from all walks of life. That harmony is rare and powerful. The Regberegbe system also must endure. It instils discipline, responsibility, and cohesion in an increasingly individualistic world. Respect for tradition and leadership is equally vital. Paying homage to the Awujale is more than a ceremony; it symbolises unity, continuity, and communal identity. Finally, the celebration of identity through fashion, music, and storytelling must never be lost. These cultural expressions carry our history in ways no textbook can.
ADEDOYIN BADEWA ALATISHE FAROUQ OREAGBA
Otubu, for example, led Ijebu troops in the Battle of Imagbon and the 1892 Ijebu Expedition. Their appearance today is a vivid reminder of our warrior past and loyalty to the Awujale. Their role has evolved from warriors to cultural torchbearers. Each time they ride out in full display, they tell a story of honour, pride, and unity. By passing these traditions down through generations, they preserve the dignity and grandeur of Ojude Oba, serving as living links between yesterday and tomorrow.
In your opinion, how can festivals like Ojude Oba be used to promote not just tourism, but also pride in local heritage across Nigeria and beyond? Festivals like Ojude Oba are powerful platforms for tourism, cultural diplomacy, and national identity. They give us the chance to tell our own stories through art, fashion, music, and community. To promote pride in heritage, festivals must be packaged as living archives, where history comes alive, where young people see themselves in legacy, and where Nigerians at home and abroad reconnect with their roots. Ojude Oba is more than a local event; it’s a showcase of Ijebu excellence. With the right support, it can become a cultural export through documentation, digital storytelling, exhibitions, and partnerships with tourism boards and embassies. For me, storytelling is key. Ijebu history holds incredible stories of resilience, leadership, and innovation, yet many never hear them. I carry Ijebu with me everywhere I go, not out of bias, but gratitude.
Once you know your story, no one can take it from you. We must encourage a generation proud of where they come from, because pride sustains culture beyond the festival grounds.
How would you describe the late Awujale Oba Sikiru Adetona’s vision and personal impact on the evolution of the Ojude Oba Festival as a symbol of unity and pride among the Ijebu people?
One of the most iconic sights at Ojude Oba is the majestic entrance of the horse-riding families. What is the cultural and historical significance of this tradition within the Ijebu community, and what role do these families play in preserving the spirit of the festival?
The horse-riding families are not just performers; they are custodians of legacy. Historically, the Balogun families were military leaders, defenders of the Ijebu kingdom. The horses, regalia, and procession symbolise courage, strength, and service to the throne. Balogun
The late Awujale, Oba Sikiru Adetona, may the peace and blessings of Allah be with him, played a transformative role in elevating Ojude Oba. His vision was anchored in three profound ideals. He expanded the festival beyond religious roots, promoting inclusion of all Ijebu subgroups, making it a unifying celebration. He revitalised the Regberegbe system and promoted Ijebu pride, turning Ojude Oba into a national and international showcase of heritage. He made the festival a platform for dialogue, empowerment, and investment, attracting leaders and global interest. His leadership gave Ojude Oba the structure, prestige, and relevance it enjoys today.
The Ojude Oba Festival is more than a spectacle; it’s a reflection of Ijebu pride and tradition. In your view, what does this festival say about the values, resilience, and unity of the Ijebu people?
More than anything, it showcases our pride in our culture, our heritage, our industriousness, and our unity as Ijebu people. It takes a lot for each regberegbe and family to prepare for Ojude Oba, and they do it with pride. This is who we are as Ijebu people. The horse-riding families are one of the most striking symbols of the festival.
Can you speak to the origin and historical significance of their role, and how it connects to chieftaincy, royalty, and honour in Ijebu land?
The origins of the Ojude Oba festival are well known. It started as a symbol of gratitude by Balogun Kuku and other Muslims to the Awujale at the time. They came in their finest outfits and all the trappings of wealth at the time. This also aligned with the position of Balogun Kuku as a warrior. Horse riding families are not that many in Ijebu, and each one carries the pride of the Ijebu people on their shoulders during the festival, along the same path trodden by Balogun Kuku. It is an honour not bestowed on many, and it is a time when we shed our royal and chieftaincy yards and become horsemen. As you saw this year, we even had people travelling from far and wide just to be a part of it. It is the pride of Ijebus.
Age-grade groups, known as regberegbe, play a central role in organising and showcasing at Ojude Oba. How have these groups helped sustain cultural identity and social cohesion across generations in Ijebu society?
passing it from one generation to another, whilst cutting across social classes.
In a time where many traditional festivals are losing cultural depth to commercialisation, how has Ojude Oba maintained its dignity and relevance while embracing modernity?
The regberegbe age groups are not unique to Ijebus alone, but we are definitely the most colourful. It is a common thread that brings sons and daughters of Ijebu together and, most importantly, brings them home to their roots. For me, they play a major role in preserving our culture and
Ojude Oba does need some modernising, as we saw in June, but custodians of our culture and the event itself have ensured we retain the essence of the festival itself. The level of commercialisation we are witnessing is unprecedented but within strict boundaries. We cannot lose the essence of the festival itself. The participants are only from Ijebu, and despite attempts to change it, the organisers have not budged and have stuck to the cultural essence that we are trying to showcase. That is one of the reasons that the event hasn’t moved to a bigger venue, although we can expect some changes at the 2026 event. Hopefully, the organisers will adopt a route format whereby the riders follow a specified route, thus allowing attendees to line the route instead of all heading to the pavilion. This will help address some of the crowd safety concerns. Thus, with some creativity, we can modernise but retain the ethos of the festival itself.
For someone witnessing Ojude Oba for the first time, the display of pageantry, equestrian pride, and communal joy can be overwhelming. What, in your opinion, is the heart of the festival, and what lesson does it offer to other cultures in Nigeria and beyond?
The Ijebu pride is at the core of the festival. We are very proud people and are not scared to show it. This festival has been going for over 100 years, without the global interest which has only emerged in the past 2 years. There is still a lot to be done by the organisers, but we have already shown the potential for revenue generation, and this should be a pointer for other festivals. Culture and tradition have become a currency that dovetails into tourism potential. This is the time to embrace our culture and turn our country into a global tourist destination.
FOLARIN KUKU
Ojude Oba is one of Nigeria’s most revered cultural festivals. What do you believe is its deeper purpose today?
Culture binds society across communities, religions, and generations. In divisive times, it gives unity and resilience. Its openness to others is its most powerful aspect.
What sets Ojude Oba apart, and what lessons can other communities learn?
Its success lies in moving with the times while staying rooted in history. Each generation leaves its mark, but always grounded in authenticity. That authenticity makes people embrace it.
Your family has maintained a ceremonial presence at Ojude Oba. How do you see this legacy evolving?
It depends on both older and younger generations. We’re fortunate to be taught our history early, and elders give us space to add our own mark. Inclusivity keeps the tradition alive.
Why is it important for Nigerians at home and abroad to stay connected to cultural festivals?
If we don’t know where we’re from, we can’t know where we’re going. Culture grounds us amid global changes. Festivals like Ojude Oba are more than events; they’re celebrations of unity and shared identity.
From your experience as a military officer and cultural ambassador, how can leadership and cultural pride build stronger communities?
The army taught me the value of unified purpose. In Ojude Oba, families and groups collaborate, sharing strengths instead of undermining one another. Inclusion ensures everyone feels part of a collective destiny. Applied to civilian life, this spirit could transform society.
How would you describe the late Awujale’s vision and impact?
Oba Adetona’s reign brought strategic brilliance. He modernised while preserving tradition, encouraged inclusivity, and elevated Ojude Oba to global prominence. Under him, rivalries gave way to unity, ensuring the festival is welcoming to all. His legacy now calls us to honour, sustain, and expand this cultural jewel for future generations.
OMOBA ADEBOYE KASALI
Coming from the Fidipote Ruling House and as son of the Moyegeso of Itele, how has your upbringing shaped your understanding of duty and pride?
Being born into royalty instilled values, customs, and responsibilities from childhood. It shaped my cultural views and sense of duty as an Ijebu prince.
As the youngest Mogaji of your lineage, how do you balance preserving legacy with reaching modern audiences?
It’s both a privilege and a challenge. As Mogaji, I must uphold family values while engaging younger generations, ensuring they participate in cultural traditions.
What role do royal families play in maintaining Ojude Oba’s authenticity?
Royal families remind the people that Ojude Oba is rooted in loyalty and unity. Our presence symbolises continuity and reinforces cultural identity.
As a prince, what does the horse-riding tradition mean to you?
It evokes pride, responsibility, and ancestral connection. Each ride is a declaration: “We remember who we are.” Every hoofbeat is a drumbeat of legacy.
How do you balance your role in government with cultural responsibilities?
It requires diplomacy and intentionality. serve both government and culture with the same mission: elevating and unifying the Ijebu people.
How would you describe the late Awujale’s impact?
Oba Adetona transformed Ojude Oba into a grand celebration of unity and identity. He championed inclusivity, transcending religious and social divides. His vision was strategic. He cemented Ijebu identity and used culture as a tool for solidarity and progress.
PRINCESS ADESILE AJIGBOTESO
Your historic horseback debut at Ojude Oba in 2024 reshaped the visual language of the festival. What did that moment mean to you personally, and what do you believe it unlocked for women in cultural spaces across Nigeria?
2024 wasn’t my riding debut. I had been riding for years, but that was the year the spotlight found me. When I rode, it sparked questions: “Can women really ride at Ojude Oba? If yes, why haven’t we seen them?” It made people reflect on women who had ridden before but were never celebrated like the men. That moment opened a door for women to be visible and recognised as cultural custodians in a space tied to power, pride, and heritage. Seeing more women and girls ride proudly in 2025 felt like history being rewritten in real time. For me, courage isn’t just about claiming your own space; it’s about creating room for others, too.
As a royal and cultural influencer, you’ve helped redefine what modern tradition looks like. How do you strike a balance between honouring the past and pushing for more inclusive, progressive representations at festivals like Ojude Oba?
Tradition must evolve to stay alive. For me, honouring the past means respecting the values of loyalty, community, heritage, and honour, while also asking who has been left out of the story. This is why founded the Ijebu Equestrian Queens (IEQ): to turn visibility into legacy. It honours the women who rode before us and ensures our daughters see themselves in the story. I also weave fashion into culture, as both a celebration of roots and an invitation for the next generation. The goal is not erasure, but evolution.
The rise of the Ijebu Equestrian Queens speaks to your ripple effect within the community. How do you see this movement growing, and what legacy do you hope it leaves for younger Ijebu girls?
IEQ was born after my 2024 horseback image went viral. So many women asked, “Can we ride too?” 2025 became our collective answer. More women mounted their horses, proving that once a door is opened, you hold it wide for others. IEQ is about more than riding. It’s about rewriting cultural representation for Ijebu women. My hope is that one day, horseback riding at Ojude Oba is as celebrated for our daughters as it has long been for our sons. I want every girl to see a horse and see herself: strong, beautiful, rooted, and bold enough to shape the future.
Your work across fashion, design, and food spans Nigeria and Mexico. How has your exposure to global cultures deepened your appreciation for the storytelling power of festivals like Ojude Oba?
Living between Nigeria and Mexico has made me protective of our stories. I’ve seen how other cultures fight to preserve theirs through food, art, and festivals. It taught me that when we tell our story well, it resonates beyond Ijebu Ode, Lagos, or Nigeria. Ojude Oba is our story told in colour, sound, horses, regalia, and community. It proves that culture is our soft power, connecting us to the world while grounding us at home.
With your growing international presence, what message do you hope global audiences take away from witnessing Ojude Oba, and how does your personal brand help translate that tradition to the world? want the world to see Ojude Oba as a living, evolving tradition, not a relic. Africa’s heritage is powerful and modern. Through my platform as Princess Adesile, I show that culture can be regal yet inclusive. When people watch us ride, I hope they feel inspired to honour their roots no matter where life
them. Our roots are our wings.
How would you describe the late Awujale Oba Sikiru Adetona’s vision and personal impact on the evolution of the Ojude
Festival as a symbol of unity and pride among the
Kabiyesi, Awujale Sikiru Kayode Adetona, was more than our king. He was a father to a nation and like a grandfather to me. His reign was a masterclass in dignified leadership. He elevated Ojude Oba from a community celebration into a global stage where Ijebu pride and unity shine. He didn’t just preserve tradition; he ensured every generation could find its place within it. His legacy will live on in every proud Omo Ijebu.
YUSUF AYOKUNLE DONGO
Your family, the Shote Towobola lineage, holds a historic place among the esteemed horse-riding families in Ijebu-Ode, central to the grandeur of Ojude Oba. What does this heritage mean to you personally, and how has it influenced your sense of identity, both as an artist and as a custodian of tradition?
It is a profound honour to be a great-great-grandchild of Pa Asani Shote, one of Ijebuland’s revered warriors. This heritage is more than history—it is a living legacy binding the Shote Towobola family with pride and unity.
As an artist, this inheritance shapes my creative expression. My work reflects Yoruba culture and tradition; even without my signature, it speaks of my roots. Art is a way to preserve and communicate heritage, and my pieces honour where I come from.
As an artist deeply rooted in Ijebu heritage yet working in global spaces, how does the essence of festivals like Ojude Oba influence your creative expression?
Ojude Oba shapes my creativity by allowing me to reinterpret heritage in a contemporary context. One such expression is my project ÌTA ỌBA (The King’s Forecourt), inspired by Ijebu history and identity. It pays tribute to the Balogun warriors and honours His Royal Majesty, Oba Dr. Sikiru Kayode Adetona, whose vision elevated Ojude Oba into a global celebration.
Witnessing its scale inspired me to create a 12-foot monumental sculpture that preserves heritage while affirming my place as an African rooted in history and pride.
The Ijebu culture is rich in visual symbolism from regalia to horsemen and regberegbe age groups. How do these elements inspire your sculptural work?
The horse, a symbol of royalty, strength, and valour, is central to my art. It represents the Ijebu warriors who rode in homage to the Awujale. In my ÌTA ỌBA I series, colourful boxes symbolised the regberegbe groups, reflecting their energy and unity. In ÌTA ỌBA II, vivid colours on sculpted horses captured the flamboyance of Ojude Oba. Through such works, I translate tradition into timeless forms.
You’re known for turning discarded materials into objects of value. How does this reflect Ijebu resilience?
By turning trash into treasure, I challenge how we define value in both material and cultural value. Colonial narratives dismissed our traditions, but like scrap metal, our culture never lost worth; it only needed reimagining. ÌTA ỌBA embodies resilience, creativity, and dignity. It reminds us that brokenness can give rise to something powerful, affirming that our heritage thrives with relevance today.
Now based in the UK, how do you stay connected to your roots in Ijebu-Ode, particularly during Ojude Oba?
Living abroad has its challenges, but remain connected through community networks in the UK and by returning home yearly for Ojude Oba. plan to increase visits, rebuild my studio in Ijebu-Ode, and establish a horse stable. These steps will root me closer and inspire younger generations to appreciate our culture.
As someone who bridges tradition and innovation, what role do contemporary creatives play in preserving festivals like Ojude Oba?
Contemporary creatives reinterpret traditions in ways that resonate with younger audiences, ensuring relevance globally. What we create
becomes the
How would you describe the late Awujale Oba Sikiru Adetona’s impact on Ojude
Oba Adetona was more than a king; he was a visionary. His reign elevated Ojude Oba into a global celebration while preserving cultural identity. He embodied wisdom, progress, and unity. His legacy remains a guiding light.
takes
Oba
Ijebu people?
today
foundation for future generations. Art bridges past and future, allowing festivals like Ojude Oba to thrive endlessly.
Oba?
OTHER FESTIVALS IN NIGERIA WORTH KNOWING
By Funke Babs-Kufeji
Nigeria’s cultural calendar is alive with festivals that blend history, spirituality, music, fashion, and pageantry. These gatherings go beyond entertainment—they are traditions that keep communities connected to their roots while drawing attention from across the globe. From north to south, east to west, every festival tells a story of heritage and pride.
Osun-Osogbo Festival (Osun State)
A UNESCO-recognised celebration held at the Osun Sacred Grove in Osogbo, this festival honours Osun, the river goddess. Devotees gather for prayers, sacrifices, dances, and rituals, creating a mix of spirituality and cultural spectacle that attracts worshippers and visitors worldwide.
Calabar Carnival (Cross River State)
Durbar Festival (Kano, Katsina, Zaria)
Durbar stands out as one of Nigeria’s most visually stunning festivals. With horsemen in colourful robes, turbaned riders, drummers, and processions honouring the Emir, it coincides with Islamic holidays such as Eid, reflecting royalty, tradition, and community pride.
Ofala Festival (Onitsha, Anambra State)
This royal celebration honours the Obi of Onitsha, one of the most revered monarchs in Igbo land. The king appears in full regalia before his people, while dances, parades, music, and feasting bring the community together in grandeur.
Argungu
Fishing Festival
(Kebbi State)
Best known for its thrilling fishing contest, the Argungu Festival sees thousands of fishermen diving into the Matan Fada River with nets, gourds, and even their bare hands in search of the biggest catch. Beyond fishing, it features wrestling, traditional music, dances, and agricultural fairs, showcasing the pride of Northern Nigeria.
New Yam Festival (Igbo Communities, South-East)
A central part of Igbo culture, this festival celebrates harvest and thanksgiving. Families, kings, and communities come together to share roasted yams, host masquerades, and perform dances—an annual reminder of gratitude and abundance.
Eyo Festival (Lagos Island, Lagos State)
A unique Lagos spectacle, the Eyo Festival features the iconic whiteclad masqueraders known as Adamu Orisha. They parade through the city in honour of traditional rulers or historical milestones, merging cultural performance with a celebration of the city’s heritage. Eyo Festival (Lagos Island, Lagos State) A unique Lagos spectacle, the Eyo Festival features the iconic white-clad masqueraders known as Adamu Orisha. They parade through the city in honour of traditional rulers or historical milestones, merging cultural performance with a celebration of the city’s heritage.
Sharo or Shadi Festival (Fulani
Communities,
Northern Nigeria)
A traditional rite of passage for young Fulani men, the Sharo Festival is most noted for its endurance test—public flogging. Participants are expected to endure without flinching, symbolising courage, resilience, and cultural identity.
Ikeji Arondizuogu Festival (Imo State)
A colourful Igbo festival marked by masquerades, dances, and competitions, Ikeji Arondizuogu is a proud display of tradition where visitors are warmly welcomed into the cultural richness of the community.
5 CELEBRITY SECRETS TO MAKING ANY OUTFIT WORK
By Funke Babs-Kufeji
We’ve all had that moment: staring at the mirror, questioning whether an outfit works or wondering if it looks too much. Meanwhile, stars step out in looks that defy logic—wild colours, oversized silhouettes, daring cuts—and somehow, they make it all look effortless. Their secret? It’s not just designer labels or personal stylists. What really sells the outfit is attitude.
Celebrities have mastered the art of transforming clothes into statements. They can turn simple basics into fashion moments and bold risks into iconic looks. And the truth is, their secrets aren’t locked behind velvet ropes—you can use them too.
Here are five celebrityinspired secrets to help you pull off any outfit like it was made for you.
1. Commit Fully
If there’s one thing stars never do, it’s wear something halfway. Once they choose a look, they own it completely. No hesitation, no selfconscious adjustments, no apologies. That absolute commitment makes even the boldest fashion choices feel intentional.
Take a note from their playbook: once you step out the door, don’t second-guess your outfit. Confidence is the final accessory that makes everything click.
2. Use Body Language as an Accessory Clothing is only half the
story—how you carry yourself is the rest. Stars know that posture, stride, and presence can elevate the simplest outfits. A plain T-shirt paired with the right body language can suddenly look editorial. Think of it this way: your body language is the invisible styling tool you bring everywhere. Shoulders back, head high, eyes forward—it’s the difference between looking dressed and looking styled.
3. Embrace Uniqueness
What makes a celebrity’s look memorable isn’t that it follows the rules—it’s that it bends them. They embrace quirks, whether that’s unusual proportions, bold colours, or unexpected combinations. What might feel like a “mistake” on someone else becomes their trademark. The secret? They don’t run from what makes them different— they lean into it until it feels like their signature. That’s what transforms clothes into a personal brand.
4. Keep a Little Mystery Stars understand that sometimes less is more. They don’t reveal everything at once, and that restraint creates intrigue. A pair of oversized shades, a clean silhouette with one dramatic detail, or an outfit that feels effortless instead of overworked—these touches of mystery keep people guessing. The point isn’t to hide—it’s to strike a balance that feels polished, a reminder that style can be as much about suggestion as it is about statement.
5. Believe in Your Style
The most iconic celebrity looks are rarely the ones everyone agrees on. They’re the ones worn with conviction. Belief is contagious—when a star believes in their style, the world learns to see it their way. It’s the same for you. If you’re doubting your outfit, it will show. But when you wear something with certainty, it stops being “just clothes” and starts becoming a statement.
HOW TO NETWORK THE RIGHT WAY IN 2025
There was a time when “networking” meant awkwardly shuffling around a conference room, balancing a plastic cup of wine in one hand and your stack of business cards in the other. Fast forward to 2025, and the rules of connection have shifted. We live in a world where a single DM can open the door to a multi-milliondollar deal, and where “who you know” is less about volume and more about value. But with all the chatter about networking—how to do it, who’s doing it best, why you’re not doing it enough—the real question is: what does networking the right way actually look like today?
Forget Collecting, Start Curating
In 2025, nobody is impressed by the fact that you have 5,000 LinkedIn connections if half of them couldn’t pick you out of a lineup. The smartest networkers are focused on depth over breadth. Think of your network like a dinner party guest list—you want people whose presence adds value, conversation, and opportunity. A smaller, curated circle that knows you well will take you farther than a bloated contact list.
Authenticity Is the New Currency
The performative handshake era is over. In a time when AI can draft a flawless email and LinkedIn feeds are packed with polished posts, authenticity has become priceless. People crave real connection. That means asking thoughtful questions, listening more than you speak, and showing genuine curiosity. If your first instinct is, what can get from this person?, you’ve already lost. The right way to network in 2025 is to approach conversations with a spirit of exchange—not extraction.
Tech Is Rewriting the Playbook
Here’s what’s new: networking apps powered by AI that match people by shared interests, VR conferences where you can “bump into” someone in a virtual cocktail lounge, and online
communities that feel more valuable than any after-work mixer. A few years ago, networking was about physical spaces; now, it’s about blended spaces. One Lagos-based consultant even admits her biggest client came from a casual conversation in a Clubhouse room, not a traditional boardroom. The future belongs to those who embrace both digital and physical arenas.
Generations Network Differently
Networking style now has a generational flair. Gen Z prefers WhatsApp groups, Slack channels, and TikTok DMs—they’re quick, informal, and fearless about reaching out. Millennials still swear by coffee catch-ups and curated LinkedIn posts. Boomers? Many still favour the old-fashioned lunch or golf course deal. The lesson? Adapt your approach depending on who you’re speaking with. Cross-generational networking is a skill in itself.
Follow-Up Is the Real Flex
Anyone can say, “Let’s stay in touch.” Few actually mean it. Following up is where most networking efforts collapse. In 2025, the followup doesn’t need to be stiff or formulaic. Send a quick message referencing something you discussed, share a relevant article, or simply check in a few weeks later. Consistency is the flex—it shows you’re not just transactional, you’re invested.
Etiquette Still Matters
The new rules of networking have their own etiquette. Don’t cold-DM without context. Don’t hijack someone else’s spotlight online. Don’t send 5 follow-ups in a row like you’re chasing a lost parcel. The right tone is warm, concise, and respectful of someone’s time. Good manners are remembered long after a flashy pitch is forgotten.
Hybrid Spaces Are the New Cocktail Parties
Gone are the days when networking was limited to events labelled “networking night.”
These days, meaningful connections happen in more fluid spaces: co-working hubs, alumni WhatsApp groups, virtual communities, and even luxury gym locker rooms. The people
you meet while volunteering at an NGO or collaborating on a passion project can become part of your strongest professional circle. Networking in 2025 means keeping your radar on in unexpected places.
Networking Is a Two-Way Street
The fastest way to be remembered is to be helpful. Make introductions, share opportunities, and recommend people even when it doesn’t immediately benefit you. Think of networking like tending a garden—you nurture it over time, and it eventually bears fruit. The people who thrive in 2025 are the ones who understand that the most powerful connections are built on reciprocity.
