… plus captivating photographs from Ojude Oba 2026

Like the proverbial bitter kola that does not miss every season, a vibrant multitude of Ijebu sons and daughters again converged on Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State recently in resplendent attires and enviable steeze. With passionate fervour, they consolidated their position on the larder of cultural reverence and display of a stupendously rich artistic heritage.

It was at the Ojude Oba Festival 2026, which had First City Monument Bank as the principal sponsor. The event attracted many visitors and gracefully unfolded as a feast of spectacles, colours, grandeur, and an unbreakable bond. For one, the great ‘omo alares’, as Ijebus are traditionally praised, proved that although their much-adored legendary monarch, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, has joined his ancestors, out of sight is not out of mind. They established this by fulfilling all the elevated processes of the festival, which the departed crown had assiduously worked to elevate to the extraordinary height that everyone now cherishes — and tries to copy, if not clone, in some places.

In the wisdom of a Yoruba proverb, ‘Eegun omode nii koko jo ki t’agba to jo’, meaning the young masquerades perform before the elderly ones. But in the Ojude Oba Festival tradition, the reverse is the case, perhaps interestingly buttressing the message in another adage which says ‘Eegun to ba ko jo, iran ni a wo ni’gbeyin’: the masquerade who dances first eventually ends up as a spectator. For from around 10 am when the programmes formally started, it was the oldest Regberegbe age grades that, in venerable glamour, opened the breathtaking but very disciplined parade that is the soul of the festival. The senior men and women had been part of the festival for decades. Yet, their enthusiasm and passion burnt with youthful flames as they straddled the clapping pavilion with graceful aesthetics. Then the younger groups followed in theatrical rounds, thrilling the crowd in a healthy cultural competition. But trust the horse-riding families. When their turn came late afternoon, the warriors in their blood played out as they upped the game with prancing dance steps and friendly gunshots.

At the end of the day, Egbe Bobakeye emerged as the overall winner in the male category, while Egbe Arobayo Obinrin Precious achieved same in the female category. The Balogun Kuku Family won in the horse-riding category.

Meanwhile, the expansive feast was boosted by the presence of celebrities that included Nollywood stars Eniola Badmus, Adeniyi Johnson, Mercy Aigbe, Femi Branch, Idowu Phillips aka Mama Rainbow, and Dayo Amusa. While daughter-of-the-soil waka Queen Salawa Abeni and content creator Samuel Banks were also part of the carnival, the king of steeze himself, Farooq Oreagba, stormed the pavilion with his trademark charismatic horseback entrance. He never disappointed in his commanding regalia and acclaimed candour.

Of course, Oreagba’s participation was symbolic in two respects. Firstly, he was the deserved legend everyone wanted to behold. Secondly, he enjoys cultural ambassadorship with FCMB, the prime sponsor of the Ojude Oba Festival. The bank’s presence at the event was so robust and strategic that its tender, purple, and illuminating yellow corporate insignia was visible on every cardinal point of the festival ground and the city itself. From FCMB’s elegantly built pavilion-within-pavilion stand in the arena, to the colourfully draped team it deployed, to the gifts the bank presented to the royalty when it was its turn to parade, then to the bountiful financial support it gave for the programme, the bank is indeed a blessing to the cultural growth of not only Ijebu-Ode but Nigeria at large.

In his goodwill message at the festival, Group Chief Executive, FCMB Group Plc, Mr Ladi Balogun, underscored the above dynamics. According to him, it was with pride and reflection that he joined the Regent, Acting Awujale, Olorogun (Dr.) Sonny Folorunsho Kuku, the Ijebu traditional institution, Ojude Oba Festival Committee, and all Ijebuland’s people, to celebrate the 2026 edition, describing the festival as “a true symbol of our culture.”

Mr Balogun said, “This year’s festival holds special significance as we honour the legacy of His Royal Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Sikiru Kayode Adetona, CFR, the Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, whose passing in 2025 marked the end of one of the most consequential royal reigns in Nigeria’s history.

“For over six decades, Kabiyesi embodied disciplined leadership, dignity, and progress. He strengthened the traditional institution, elevated Ijebuland’s profile on the national stage, and transformed Ojude Oba into a cultural platform that promotes heritage, creativity, and economic growth.

“Beyond culture, Oba Adetona strongly believed in advancing his people. He championed education, development, unity, and responsible leadership. He understood that preserving tradition must go hand in hand with preparing future generations for opportunity and progress. That vision continues to shape Ijebuland today.”

He also acknowledged and commended the steady leadership of the Regent and Acting Awujale, Olorogun (Dr.) Sonny Folorunsho Kuku, noting his calm stewardship and dedication to continuity which, he said, reflected the enduring strength and stability of the Ijebu traditional institution.

On the bank’s support for Ojude Oba, the GMD stated: “For over 20 years, FCMB has remained a committed partner of the Ojude Oba Festival. Our support amplifies a longstanding belief in the importance of preserving heritage, strengthening communities, and creating opportunities for inclusive and sustainable growth.

“Today, Ojude Oba stands as a cultural celebration and a driver of enterprise and economic activity. Its growing impact supports livelihoods, strengthens communities, and reinforces the values that will shape the future of Ijebuland.”

FCMB’s kind of grand support for the Ojude Oba Festival indeed spells a lesson other blessed personalities — corporate or otherwise — should embrace to guarantee the cultural revival everyone craves. With all hands on deck — the indigenes themselves, the Ogun State Government, and a company like FCMB — it is not surprising that it (the festival) is a resounding success. Arguably the biggest fashion parade on the continent and beyond, the Ojude Oba Festival showcased the best of Yoruba dresses like aso oke, aran, ankara, and adire, with fabrics from other worlds, including exotic damask and lace varieties, flowing in variegated colours and marvelous styles. But beyond fashion, it was also a panorama of songs and poetic vibrations with which the regberegbe celebrated the monarchy while also exploiting some to assert their supremacy over others.

But who would forget the role played by chip-off-the-old-block apala maestro, Musiliu Haruna Ishola, who ruled the band stand from morning till evening? From the cultural to historical, socio-political to the satirical, he kept many people dancing and singing along, with some gleefully blessing him with money. The artiste, whose limelight has shined for about two decades, also endlessly sang the praises of dignitaries like Governor Dapo Abiodun, the chief host whose 66th birthday coincided with the 2026 Ojude Oba festival; former Governor Gbenga Daniel; All Progressives Congress governorship candidate in the state, Olamilekan Adeola Solomon (Yayi); and son of President Bola Tinubu, Seyi Tinubu.

Beyond entertainment, heritage, and reunion values, the festival also provided locals an opportunity to make money as they had more people to buy the various products they had for sale.

Organisers of the Windsor International Black Film Festival (WIBFF), Windsor in Ontario, Canada, have announced the participation of Nollywood actors and filmmakers in the 2026 edition of the festival.

The Festival Director and President of WIBFF, Dr Queen Eghujovbo, disclosed this during a media conference held on Wednesday in Enugu.

Reports that WIBFF is an annual film festival and nonprofit founded by Eghujovbo, to provide a supportive platform for Black filmmakers to share their narratives without the pressures of competing against larger production.

It is also a platform for black voices to share their cultures and experiences with a global audience.

Represented by one of the festival’s coordinators, Prince Alexander Nwokeabia, Eghujovbo said the festival would feature the Nollywood Micro Section and The Actors Market Place (TAMP) as a major component of the 2026 edition scheduled for Aug. 13 to Aug. 16.

She described the initiative as a landmark collaboration between WIBFF and the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), aimed at promoting African cinema, celebrating black excellence, and creating opportunities for Africans and people of African descent worldwide.

According to her, TAMP has been specially designed as an international platform to showcase the talents, creativity, and professional achievements of Nigerian actors before a global audience.

The audience, she said, comprised casting directors, producers, distributors, talent agents, film executives, and industry stakeholders from Africa, North America, Europe, the Caribbean, South America, and other regions.

“As one of North America’s leading festivals dedicated to Black and African storytelling, WIBFF remains committed to building bridges between Africa and the global Black community.

“The festival serves as a meeting point for filmmakers, actors, producers, creatives, and cultural leaders, fostering collaboration, innovation, cultural exchange, and economic opportunities,” she said.

Eghujovbo noted that WIBFF recognised Nollywood as a major force in global cinema and was honoured to provide a platform through which Nigerian actors and filmmakers could engage international markets, explore co-production opportunities, secure representation, and establish lasting partnerships.

“Through initiatives such as The Actors Marketplace, WIBFF continues to champion the voices, stories, and achievements of Africans and Black people around the world while promoting collaboration and professional growth,” she added.

Speaking at the event, Chief Steve Eboh, Festival Director of the AGN International Festival, described the initiative as another milestone in efforts to expand the global footprint of Nigerian actors.

“This collaboration strengthens cultural exchange and reinforces the growing influence of Nollywood within the global entertainment industry,” he said.

He said the initiative would serve as a strategic marketplace for talent discovery, international casting opportunities, representation, co-productions, and long-term industry collaborations.

Eboh expressed appreciation to TravelWings Nigeria, the official travel and logistics partner of the AGN International Festival Canada Edition, for providing travel support, visa advisory services, logistics coordination, and professional guidance for delegates and participants.

He also appealed to corporate organisations, government institutions, development agencies, investors, and friends of Nollywood to support the project.

Also speaking, the National Vice President of the AGN, Mr Chukwudike Anigbo, encouraged members to take advantage of the opportunity to participate in the international event and gain exposure to global best practices in the film industry.

Chukwudike expressed confidence that the festival would open new opportunities for Nigerian actors and filmmakers.

Africa’s leading virtual cinema platform, Circuits, has announced a landmark partnership with Sozo Films and Mount Zion Film Productions for the nationwide cinema release of: “Agbara Nla: The Return,” on October 1, 2026.

The release of the film will mark the revival of one of the most influential faith-based film franchises in African cinema.

Speaking on the project in Abuja on Sunday, the Chief Operating Officer and Founder of Circuits, Imade Bibowei-Osuobeni, described the film’s return as a significant cultural and spiritual moment.

Bibowei-Osuobeni explained that the original Agbara Nla transcended entertainment to become a movement that shaped conversations around faith, value and purpose across generations.

According to him, the decision by Circuits to back the production reflects the company’s commitment to supporting stories that inspire, challenge and uplift audiences.

“At a time when much of the entertainment industry is driven by trends and algorithms, we believe there remains a strong audience appetite for stories rooted in faith, culture, purpose and enduring values.”

Bibowei-Osuobeni added that the project signalled renewed confidence in the commercial viability and cultural relevance of faith-based filmmaking in Africa.

She noted that audiences were increasingly seeking content that resonates with their beliefs, experiences and aspirations.

The COO and Founder of circuits also explained that the original Agbara Nla, produced by Mount Zion Film Productions under the leadership of Mike and Gloria Bamiloye, helped define Christian filmmaking on the continent, and had remained one of the most recognised gospel film brands in Africa.

She said that the new production sought to preserve that legacy while introducing the story to a new generation of viewers.

The Circuits Founder further explained that Sozo Films was playing a pivotal role in reimagining the classic franchise through contemporary filmmaking techniques while retaining the spiritual depth and message that made the original production a phenomenon.

“This collaboration represents a meeting of heritage and innovation, ensuring that the story remains relevant to today’s audiences without losing its core identity,” she said.

Produced by Chris Odeh, with Mohammed Sedik and Damilola Bamiloye serving as co-producers: “Agbara Nla: The Return,” is directed by Damilola Bamiloye and Joshua “JayMikee” Bamiloye.

The executive producing team included Bibowei-Osuobeni, Kelechi Okoro, Chris Odeh, and members of the Bamiloye family.

Bibowei-Osuobeni expressed confidence that the film would become a defining moment for faith-based storytelling in Africa, revealing that distribution discussions were advancing, including engagements with leading theatrical distributor “Blue Pictures Limited”.

She said: “More than a movie, Agbara Nla: The Return is the revival of a legacy, a celebration of African faith-based storytelling and a bridge connecting generations.

“It is proof that truly great stories never lose their power; they simply wait for the right time to be told again.”

Singer Davido has pledged to reward a loyal fan with ₦15 million on Saturday, June 20, following a viral exchange on the social media platform X.

The interaction started when a fan known as Abazz (@abazwhyllzz) made a post praising Davido for recently gifting a car to another devoted supporter. However, the post attracted a troll who mocked Abazz, noting that he had been one of the singer’s long-time online supporters without receiving any personal reward. The critic also sarcastically added a “prayer,” asking Davido to bless him(the fan) as well.

In response, Abazz defended his loyalty, stating that his admiration for the Afrobeats star goes beyond financial gain or material benefits.

The exchange later gained Davido’s attention, who reacted by offering the fan a ₦15 million gift in appreciation of his support.

The development sparked widespread reactions across social media, with many users praising the artiste for acknowledging and appreciating the fan’s loyalty in a public way.

Sensational TV media personality, Morayo Afolabi-Brown, has revisited a troubled love experience she had.

According to her, when she was an usher at Harvesters Church, a minister she was dating broke up with her.

Although she did not give details of the failed relationship, she said it was the reason she left the church.

Brown discussed the matter during her recent podcast with Pastor Bolaji Idowu.

She explained that both she and her former partner served in ministry at Harvesters, where she was head usher and he held a ministerial role.

“I left Harvesters Church because of a man. He broke up with me. We were both ministers at the church; I was the head usher, and he was a minister. Pastor Bolaji begged me not to go, but I refused,” she said.

… Father’s Day: Nigerian fathers speak

 

Some fathers and their families. Image: NAN

 

By Catherine Egwuom, Lilian Okoro and Kemi Akintokun

As families across Nigeria celebrate Father’s Day, many fathers in Nigeria are reflecting on the sacrifices they make daily to provide for their loved ones amidst prevailing economic challenges.

Father’s Day in Nigeria is celebrated on the third Sunday of June, matching the global observance.

The day honours fathers, stepfathers, and father figures for their sacrifices, leadership, and provision within the home and the broader Nigerian society.

The fathers are usually appreciated through special thanksgiving services, giving thoughtful gifts, having treats and special meals/celebrations among other ways.

Nevertheless,  many Nigerian men are decrying systemic gender bias and calling for greater appreciation, support, and understanding from their families and the government.

This shifting dynamic vividly recalls the iconic comedy film “Omugwo”, where veteran actor Nkem Owoh (Osuofia) humorously but deeply challenges conventional African definitions of paternal involvement.

In the movie released in 2002, Owoh plays a grandfather who humorously breaks traditional cultural boundaries to help care for his newborn grandchild.

His character steps into domestic roles usually reserved for women, handling chores and baby care while challenging long-held African stereotypes about rigid paternal responsibilities.

His character breaks cultural boundaries by entering spaces traditionally reserved for women, symbolising a broader conversation about what modern Nigerian fatherhood truly requires from men today.

Owoh’s witty performance highlights the evolving expectations of modern Nigerian men, proving that fatherly love requires active, hands-on emotional and physical presence, even as fathers yearn for same care, attention, love and general support.

Speaking with various fathers nationwide on Sunday reveals that balancing emotional presence with the heavy burden of financial provision remains the ultimate test of contemporary parenting.

From bustling Lagos, Aba and Onitsha markets to corporate Abuja , Port Harcourt and Lagos offices, these men are rewriting the old patriarchal script, proving that active fatherhood transcends mere monetary support.

Additionally, many fathers express deep frustration over the relentless economic pressures, noting that hyperinflation and soaring commodity prices have made maintaining the provider role an exhausting daily battle.

They believe society harshly judges their worth solely by their financial capacity, leaving little room for vulnerability when businesses fail or jobs are suddenly lost.

Furthermore, several men pointed out that while conversations around women’s empowerment have advanced, support systems for men’s mental health and emotional well-being remain virtually nonexistent.

Consequently, they feel increasingly isolated and unappreciated, perceiving that their silent sacrifices for family survival are largely taken for granted by both the public and immediate relatives.

Mr Shayo Bamisetemi, a father of three, urged the government to create a more habitable environment for citizens rather than politicising the current insecurity situation.

“As a dedicated father striving to provide a fulfilling life for my family, I urge the Nigerian government to create a more habitable environment for our loved ones.

“The current security issues are overwhelming, and our children deserve a safe atmosphere as they pursue their education,” he notes.

On his expectations from his family, Bamisetemi says father’s desire for appreciation and respect is fundamental, adding that, “Gratitude is a catalyst for doing even more.

“My wife’s prayers in response to my efforts in supporting the household inspire me profoundly.”

Also speaking, Mr Adeyemi Adeleye, a Lagos-based media practitioner, says his uppermost wish from his family remains unfeigned love and care.

“As a father in Nigerian society, like everyone, I will desire unwavering love and care not obtainable from anywhere in the world.

“ I will expect members of my family to show love and care no matter what, while I labour and struggle to meet their needs.

“Family is built on love and it is for fellowship, partnership and sharing. Members of my family owe me these while I reciprocate,” Adeleye said.

He also wishes that family members will not constitute an emotional burden to him if he faces difficulties meeting their needs.

Mr Bright Chigozie, a Factory Supervisor in Apapa who spends long hours away from home, echoes the security concerns, noting that fathers often endure physical and emotional stress without getting enough commendation.

“Beyond government intervention, appreciation and support from family members are equally important.

“Words of encouragement, respect and recognition from spouses and children go a long way in boosting a father’s morale.

“My work keeps me away from home most nights and this is also affects my health,” Chigozie states.

Mr Kelechukwu Peter, a Banker, acknowledges that with encouragement, men can actually step into supposedly “female roles’’ to support the family for the growth of the family.

In the same vein, Mr Julius Adeyemi, an Accountant, argues that the society has remained biased, failing to give fathers the same accolades as their female counterparts in spite of their contributions.

Corroborating this view, Mr Moses Akintokun, a Chartered Accountant, urges the government to commit more toward economic prosperity to cushion the predominant financial stress among Nigerian fathers.

“Men are really going through different kinds of stress, mental, financial and others,  but only very few talk about it.

“We are in a world where fathers get little or no appreciation for their fatherly roles due to the fact that they are not as visible and available compared to women in the upbringing of the Children,” Akintokun highlights, adding that his only desire is to see his children make him proud and impact society positively.

Mr Fednard Okoji, a Civil Servant, also decries the lack of appreciation from wives and children, which he notes, adds to the stress men face in meeting daily obligations.

“Fathers toil day and night to ensure they put food on the table, take care of the family, provide and make sure that everybody is happy.

“ However, most women take it for granted.

“Sometimes, these efforts of the men are often not appreciated by their wives and children.

“So, you see some women and children wasting food; forgetting that some homes don’t even eat three square meals a day or have not eaten for days,” Okoji states.

He adds, “Men, fathers go through a lot of stress and sometimes when these fathers come back to their homes, they expect that they meet a peaceful home, that they meet a woman who is appreciative in all ramifications.

“But, often times, it doesn’t work that way; when these men come back home, instead of their wives to calm the stress level the men have gone through, they put more fire.

“It is unfortunate.”

Contributing to the discussion, Papa Ejima, a 60-year-old father, laments  that prevailing economic hardship, unemployment, and inflation have made young graduates eager to migrate (Japa) rather than practice their careers domestically.

“I have a daughter that graduated from the University of Ilorin two years ago and she has not been employed.

“Each day, my daughters put blame on me because of the hardship in the land, demanding that she wants to migrate to another country to get a job.

“Regarding the country’s economic situation, none of the young graduates now want to stay in the country to build up their families after their education.

“So, the challenge now is who will take care of me at old age if all of them decided to travel out of the country in search of greener pasture?,” he asks.

To address these deep-seated challenges, a men’s Mental Health Advocate and Founder of the Life Abuse Foundation (LAAF), Ms Halima Layeni, underscores the need for the establishment of a Ministry of Men Affairs in Nigeria.

Layeni presents an overview of key issues confronting men, including unreported violence, severe mental health crises driven by societal pressures, and economic underemployment.

“The establishment of the Ministry of Men Affairs is of immense important.

“The ministry will provide focused attention on men’s unique issues, improve health outcomes through targeted campaigns, and create economic opportunities that enhance stability and reduce poverty among men,” she says.

Other respondents, including Mr Adewale Johnson, a Civil Servant, and Mr Kola Adeniyi, a Teacher, emphasise  that rising living costs have amplified the pressure on fathers to secure quality education and sustainable futures for their children.

Mr Lawrence Nze, an Economic Expert, calls for family-centered national policies, fair wages, healthcare access, and stronger community structures to support fathers.

“There should be a national recognition of fatherhood as a cornerstone of development, with programmes that empower fathers to balance work and family life.

“Let there be respect for fathers regardless of economic status, acknowledging their dignity and contribution,” Nze urges.

Similarly, Mr Chukwuemeka Okafor, a Businessman, and Mr Emeka Nwosu, an Entrepreneur, urge families to offer emotional backing and open communication, which they note, would cushion the pressure of fathers undergo in tough environment.

Mr Samuel Olatunde, a retired Banker, and Pastor Daniel Eze both advise families that fatherhood transcends financial provision, urging children to maintain strong moral values.

“Fatherhood should not be viewed only from the perspective of financial provision.

“Fathers also need love, care and emotional support from family members.

“There should be greater recognition of the role fathers play in nurturing and guiding their children,” Eze notes.

All in all, the respondents unanimously call for a revival of family values, improved economic opportunities, and a more balanced societal view to help fathers fulfill their roles effectively.

Catherine Egwuom, Lilian Okoro and Kemi Akintokun write for the News Agency of Nigeria

The Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN), Osun Chapter, has expressed sadness over the death of veteran actor and theatre scholar, Prof. Kola Oyewo.

The Association’s chairman in Osun, Mr Maroof Lawal, announced the death of the deceased in a statement made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Saturday in Osogbo.

NAN reports that the veteran actor was born on March 27, 1946, in Oba-Ile, Osun and he began his acting career in 1964 with the Oyin Adejobi Theatre Group.

Lawal described the late Oyewo as a revered father, mentor and Nollywood icon whose immense contributions to theatre arts and motion pictures left an enduring legacy in Nigeria and beyond.

He said that the deceased joined his ancestors on June 12 after a lifetime of dedication to the growth and development of the performing arts.

According to him, the veteran actor was disciplined, committed and his fatherly counsel shaped generations of practitioners and inspired countless talents across the country.

“With a heavy heart and total submission to the will of Almighty God, I announce the passing of our revered father, mentor and Nollywood icon, Prof. Kola Oyewo.

“He was a towering figure in theatre arts and motion picture whose dedication, discipline and fatherly counsel shaped generations of practitioners across Nigeria and beyond,” he said.

Lawal said that programme of activities for the burial of the deceased would be announced by the family in due course.

He prayed that God would forgive the late actor’s shortcomings, grant him eternal rest and give his family and the entire creative industry the fortitude to bear the loss.