First City Monument Bank (FCMB) has reaffirmed its longstanding commitment to promoting tourism and cultural heritage in Nigeria, particularly through its sponsorship of the annual Ojude Oba Festival in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State. A recent statement from FCMB expressed congratulations to the Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, as well as the chiefs, age groups, and the people of Ijebuland on this year’s Ojude Oba Festival, scheduled for July 2022.
At a press conference organized by the Ojude Oba Planning Committee to outline the festival’s events, FCMB restated its dedication to initiatives that promote tourism and stimulate development in Ogun State and Nigeria more broadly. The bank highlighted its nearly two-decade involvement as a major supporter of the Ojude Oba Festival, underscoring its belief in the potential of cultural festivals to bolster local tourism and contribute to Nigeria’s socioeconomic growth.
In a goodwill message, the FCMB Group Founder and Olori Omo-Oba (Head of all princes) of Ijebuland, Otunba Olasubomi Balogun, praised the Awujale’s efforts to revive the beloved festival following a two-year pause due to the COVID-19 pandemic. “I have always felt that, through the love of God our Saviour, we shall all soon be saved from this pandemic and will resume this unique annual adoration and paying of tribute to our royal father,” Balogun stated, reflecting the bank’s enthusiasm for the return of the festival and its commitment to sustaining cultural heritage.
This year’s festival will provide a chance for cultural expression and homage, reinforcing FCMB’s role as a cultural and tourism partner while supporting Ogun State’s local economy.
