No fewer than 100 million people are expected to participate in the 2025 edition of the globally acclaimed Ojude Oba Festival, according to the event’s organising committee.
The Coordinator of the Ojude Oba Festival Committee, Dr Fassy Yusuf, revealed this on Friday in an interview in Abeokuta.
Dr Yusuf stated that the festival, scheduled for Sunday in Ijebu-Ode, is held in honour of the Awujale of Ijebuland and remains a significant cultural celebration for the Ijebu people.
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Describing the over 200-year-old event as a key symbol of Nigeria’s rich heritage, he said:
“The festival is expected to attract Ijebu sons and daughters from around the world, alongside tourists and dignitaries keen to witness the vibrant display of culture, fashion, and tradition at the Utoro Centre in Ijebu-Ode.”
He noted that while approximately 200,000 people are expected to gather at the main pavilion and surrounding Utoro Centre, a further two to three million attendees are anticipated across various Ijebu towns and other parts of Ogun State.
In addition, millions more are expected to follow the celebration via global live-streaming platforms.
Dr Yusuf assured the public of a safe and seamless event, stating that robust security arrangements were in place.
“The Nigerian Police, NSCDC, DSS, the military, Amotekun Corps, and the Vigilante Group of Nigeria, among others, will be fully deployed to ensure no breach of security occurs,” he said.
According to him, the Ojude Oba Festival is not only a unifying event for the Ijebu people but also plays a vital role in boosting local economies and promoting Nigerian culture on the international stage.
“The festival reflects our collective pride, unity, and cultural strength. We will not allow any miscreants or troublemakers to disrupt this important event,” he added.
Dr Yusuf also expressed gratitude to corporate sponsors and stakeholders for their continued support, noting that such collaborations reflect shared values of inclusion, cultural preservation, and national development.
The festival will feature colourful attire, traditional age-grade (Regberegbe) processions, equestrian displays, and other lively cultural performances.
