Africa’s foremost corporate promoter of culture, Globacom, has joined millions of Ijebu sons and daughters in celebrating the enduring legacy of the late Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, at the 2026 edition of the globally acclaimed Ojude Oba Festival.
The telecommunications giant is marking its 21st consecutive year of sponsorship of the colourful cultural festival, which is themed, “Ojude Oba 2026: Celebrating the Legacy of Oba Sikiru Adetona.”
The grand celebration is being held at the Festival Pavilion opposite the royal palace in Ijebu Ode, drawing dignitaries, tourists, and cultural enthusiasts from across Nigeria and beyond.
This year’s edition is dedicated to honouring the remarkable life and achievements of the late monarch, who passed on Sunday, July 13, 2025, after a historic 65-year reign widely regarded as one of the most impactful traditional rulerships in Nigeria’s history.
Oba Adetona ascended the throne on April 2, 1960, and during his reign transformed the Ojude Oba Festival into one of Africa’s most celebrated cultural events, elevating its prestige and global recognition.
In a statement issued in Lagos, Globacom described the late monarch as a visionary traditional ruler whose unwavering commitment to preserving and promoting Ijebu culture, values, and traditions inspired the company’s long-standing support for the festival.
According to the company, this year’s celebration goes beyond its traditional sponsorship role and serves as a special tribute to the late Awujale, whose leadership and foresight elevated the festival to international prominence.
Globacom further recalled that Oba Adetona played a significant role in transforming Ojude Oba into a unifying cultural platform that brought together Ijebu indigenes from across the world, irrespective of religious or social affiliations.
The company noted that the monarch’s inclusive leadership and passion for cultural heritage were key reasons it began sponsoring the festival over two decades ago.
Over the years, the festival has grown into a major tourism and cultural attraction, welcoming thousands of visitors, dignitaries, and participants from within and outside Nigeria.
Globacom reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining its support for Ojude Oba as part of its broader vision of promoting Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage and showcasing it on the global stage.