In case you’ve been living under a rock or buried in Lagos traffic, here’s your update: Ojude Oba, one of the biggest cultural festivals in South-West Nigeria, is happening this weekend, and this year’s edition is about to hit differently. It would be held this Sunday, June 8th, 2025 at the Dipo Dina International Stadium, in Ijebu-Ode
Ojude Oba is Not Just a Festival, But a Movement
Although the festival has Islamic roots (according to wetin dem talk), it’s become a grand cultural celebration that unites people from all faiths and walks of life from the royal borns of Ijebu to various brands in Nigeria, all coming together to pay homage to the Awujale, king of the Ijebu people.
It’s one time of the year when families from across Nigeria and the diaspora show up in coordinated native wear from handwoven Aso oke to imported Voile lace, ankara to Swarovski precious stones, claiming territory and prestige by the elegance of their gele and the boldness of their fila.
And yes, politicians, celebrities & African crème de la crème also come outside. They pull up humbly to show face and pay respect.
This isn’t just a festival. It’s a cultural red carpet with royal energy that we anticipate year in, year out.
Let’s talk sponsors: Alcohol Brand Steps In as The Official Sponsor
Now here’s where it gets even more interesting. Orijin, the proudly Nigerian alcoholic beverage known for blending African herbs and fruit flavours, has been named the official sponsor of this year’s festival.
If you know Ojude Oba well, you would know that it’s official sponsors over the years, have come from different industries, we are talking about Globacom, First City Monument Bank (FCMB), and others like Dangote Group, Julius Berger, Rite foods.
It’s worth noting that Orijin, as well as other previous sponsors, has always been for the culture, literally. Orijin has consistently celebrated Afro-urban traditions, and now, it’s taking centre stage at Ojude Oba 2025.
Expect Orijin, and other brands like Honeywell, Indomie to show up boldly with taste.
First-Timer Guide: Don’t Come and Embarrass Us
Before you show up looking like you mistakenly entered the wrong compound, please read carefully:
- Jeans and T-shirt? No please.
This is not a brunch in one mainland restaurant or a resort in Epe. Come in full native attire. Even if you don’t have a reserved seat or family slot, dress like you came with your own camera crew. - Dress to Slay
The colours will be loud, the embroidery dramatic, and the selfies plenty. You don’t want to be the one looking like they missed the dress code.
Prepare for Heat, and Glamour
Ojude Oba is not for the weak or the unprepared. You’ll be walking, standing, posing, and adjusting your outfit every 10 minutes. It’s a full-body workout in lace and pride.
- Bring your power bank.
This is not the event where your phone should die halfway. Between selfies, filming the horse parade, and updating your Instagram story, your battery will cry. Charge up. Protect your content. - Stay hydrated. Stay shaded.
Yes, it’s a stadium, no trees to save you. Find a spot with good visibility and breeze. You need shade with view, not just shelter. - Slay like you mean it.
Your outfit should tell the story before you say a word. Coordinate. Accessorize. Overslay if you must, it’s allowed.
Word On The Street
With country people backing Ojude Oba 2025 with their full chest, expect tradition, celebration, and proper enjoyment.
Come for the culture, stay for the spectacle, and if all else fails, just find a chilled bottle of Orijin and vibe your way through.
Because this year, we’re not just celebrating heritage, we’re living it.
