Organisers of the 2025 Ojude Oba Festival say more than 100 million people across the world are expected to participate in this year’s edition of the cultural event, scheduled to take place on Sunday in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State.
Coordinator of the Ojude Oba Festival Committee, Dr Fassy Yusuf, disclosed this on Friday in an interview in Abeokuta.
He said the centuries-old festival, held in honour of the Awujale of Ijebuland, remains a deeply significant cultural heritage for the Ijebu people and a major celebration of Nigerian tradition.
“The festival is expected to draw Ijebu sons and daughters from around the world, along with tourists and dignitaries who are eager to witness the vibrant display of culture, fashion, and tradition at the Utoro Centre in Ijebu-Ode,” he stated.
Yusuf explained that while about 200,000 people are expected to attend the event at the main pavilion and surrounding Utoro Centre, an estimated two to three million visitors will be present across Ijebu towns and other areas in Ogun State. He added that millions more will join the festivities online via live streaming platforms.
He assured that adequate security had been arranged to ensure a safe and hitch-free celebration.
“The Nigerian Police, NSCDC, DSS, military, Amotekun Corps, and the Vigilante Group of Nigeria, among others, will be fully mobilised to prevent any breach of security,” he said.
Yusuf noted that Ojude Oba serves not only as a symbol of unity for the Ijebu people but also as a platform for promoting local economies and projecting Nigerian culture to a global audience.
“This festival reflects our collective pride, unity, and cultural strength. We will not allow any hoodlums or miscreants to disrupt this landmark event,” he affirmed.
He also thanked corporate sponsors and stakeholders for their continued partnership, describing their involvement as a reflection of shared values in cultural pride and national development.
The festival will feature colourful regalia, age-grade (Regberegbe) processions, equestrian displays, and other rich cultural performances.
(NAN)