There are festivals, and then there’s Ojude Oba — the one that turns Ijebu Ode into a runway, reunion, and cultural homecoming all at once. Whether you’re attending the Ojude Oba festival for the first time or the tenth, there’s a good chance you’ll forget something important.
This guide walks you through what to expect and explains everything you need to know to look, feel, and show up like royalty at the Ojude Oba Festival 2025.
When and Where Is Ojude Oba Happening This Year?
Five days until the 2025 edition of the Ojude Oba Festival, and all roads lead to Ijebu-Ode, a major town in Ogun State, Southwestern Nigeria. On D-Day, June 8, 2025, the horse-riding families and their horses and riders will all converge at Ojude Oba Arcade.
If you’re present at the venue on the day, you’re right on time to see the beautiful parade of horse riding families such the Baloguns, the Eleshins and the Kukus.
What to Wear to Ojude Oba 2025 — How to Slay Respectfully
It’s not far-fetched to call the Ojude Oba Festival Nigeria’s most glamorous cultural runway. So, be traditionally fashionable or go home.
Whether you’re supporting your host or just coming to soak in the beauty, you need a look that says “I respect tradition” but also “I’m not here to play.” If you’re thinking about what to wear to Ojude Oba, this is how to serve elegance, colour, and cultural pride without doing too much or too little. Just make sure to leave room for the cameras.
If you’re wondering what the perfect clothing material is to style your killer agbada, iro (wrapper) and buba (top), and head wraps like gele (women) and fila (men) for Ojude Oba, there are several options.
1. Aso-Oke
Aso-Oke is a traditional fabric worn for special occasions like weddings, ceremonies and festivals, including Ojude Oba. It’s handwoven, richly textured and often made with silk, cotton or metallic threads. Aso-Oke stands out for its grandeur. Wearing Aso-Oke at Ojude Oba is more than fashion; it is heritage and status.
You can get it in rich colours, adorn yourself with bold accessories and wear matching shoes, whether made from your aso-oke or a designer, to make a whole statement.
2. Lace
Wearing lace to Ojude Oba is like taking champagne to a celebration. Whether it’s French lace, corded lace or dry lace, this fabric is always classy, appropriate and serves rich aunty/uncle vibes.
You can rock it with damask or aso-oke wrappers to give it that respectful contrast. Add coral beads and embellished hand fans for extra slay.
3. Damask
Whether your fashion is traditional or modern, Damask will always be an OG. It’s durable, softly shines, and it sits well on the body. You can rock it from fila/gele to iro/sokoto.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can match damask and lace material together. Don’t forget to complement your look with cool, big sunglasses—make the sun jealous too.
4. Cashmere
If you prefer something fine, soft and light, cashmere fabrics are prized for the baddest agbada and senator wears.
You can pair your cashmere dress with a fila or gele made from aso-oke or damask, too.
10 Essentials You Should Pack for Ojude Oba 2025
Headed to Ojude Oba and want to look your best and stay prepared? Here are 10 essential items to take to Ojude Oba 2025 to have a cultural slay fest.
1. Sunscreen
You need sunscreen because you don’t want the sun to burn your skin.
2. Power bank
You know, you’ll be filming everything and everyone. Keep your phone charged.
3. Wipes or handkerchief
If you’ll be glammed up, use wipes for quick clean-ups or makeup touch-ups. If not, a handkerchief is a good accessory to dry up your sweat.
4. Hand sanitiser
This is a non-negotiable essential, especially when touching shared surfaces, shaking hands and navigating crowds like Ojude Oba. And guess what? Hand sanitisers fit right in your purse or agbada pocket.
5. Portable fan
You need this because the sun, heat and sweat are not your portion.
6. Waist pouch
You need this if you plan to keep your hands free while securely carrying your phone, cash, ATM card, lip gloss, hand sanitiser, and other small items without ruining your steeze.
7. Compact GPS tracker
This is an underrated but smart addition to your Ojude Oba essentials list. It helps locate misplaced bags and even people. If you have it, you can rest assured that your valuables are secure.
8. Refillable water bottle
Hydration is part of self-care. Don’t let a dry throat kill you, please.
9. Comfortable footwear
Remember that you’ll walk, stand, pose, dance and mingle for hours. While you choose your fashionable shoe, make sure it’s functional and comfy too. You can consider Crocs or sandals.
10. Sunglasses and an umbrella
While sunglasses add flair to your style, they also protect your eyes. An umbrella will save you from the sun and surprise rain. Bonus point if it matches your outfit.
Bonus: Cash
The venue would be too packed to look for the nearest ATM or POS, so you should hold cash, whether for food vendors, souvenirs, or tipping that one epic horse rider.
Also, remember not to spray cash unless your parents are powerful people. EFCC is not your friend.
Tips for First-time Ojude Oba Attendees
As a first-timer at the Yoruba cultural festival, there are some things to know before Ojude Oba.
Where to sit and stand
Be aware that the seating arrangements typically follow a tiered system.
- Ojude Oba Pavilion: This area, usually called the “Glass House” is where the wealthy or those who paid for premium seats are to be located.
- Main Arena: This is where the Regberegbe, AKA Age Grades, sit in groups.
- Centre Stage: This is where you’ll find the king, Awujale of Ijebuland, his family, notable dignitaries and invited guests.
- Usual Seats: This is the general space where you can sit as a regular attendee if you don’t have a reserved spot.
Etiquettes
- Don’t forget that Ojude Oba is a Yoruba tradition. So, if you find yourself in the midst of royals and elderly people, bend — if you can’t kneel or prostrate — to show respect.
- Pose and shine your teeth when you see photographers, but don’t obstruct their views because you also want to capture moments.
When to Arrive for Best View
- To secure a good viewing spot before the large crowd pours in and the sun becomes too hot, it’s best to arrive at Ojude-Oba around 7:00 in the morning. Going in early will help you avoid the inevitable rush of attendees.
What Not to Do at Ojude Oba 2025
- Don’t go underdressed or wear basic fits like jeans and a jacket.
- Don’t arrive late.
- Avoid showing up without coordinating.
- Don’t assume Ojude Oba is just fashion. Respect the culture. Ask questions if you’re unsure
- Don’t disrespect the Regberegbe processions.
- Don’t take close-ups of the royal family without permission.
- Content is king, but don’t be a nuisance by blocking people’s view for vlogs.
- If you’re not trained, don’t attempt to show off with horses. Leave it for the pros.
READ NEXT: 5 Cultural Festivals in Nigeria That Are Always Lit
How to Spot the Big Names at Ojude Oba 2025
To know when or where high-profile people are seated, pay attention to:
- The procession lineup: The Regberegbe groups include VIPs, politicians, billionaires and respected elders.
- Follow the horses: If there’s a flamboyant horseman with matching outfit and bodyguards, it’s likely royalty, moneyed elite or iconic horse-riding family.
- Awujale’s arrival: Since the Ojude Oba festival honours Awujale, you can’t miss the King’s arrival unless you’re not there early or not paying attention to announcements.
- Peep the fashion: If you see a person rocking a custom-woven aso-oke laced with gold and coral beads that could pay for your rent, you’re not looking at an average person.
- Look for media frenzy: When you see a person surrounded by several cameras, you’ve probably found someone important. This is where you’re likely to find influencers and celebs, too.
Outfit Inspiration from Past Ojude Oba Festivals
Here’s a collection of standout outfits from past Ojude Oba festivals — showcasing the rich culture, colors, and fashion that make the event so iconic. Get inspired to look your best.
Ojude Oba ‘Get Ready With Me’ Content
Princess Adesile, a royal horse rider, prepares for Ojude Oba 2025.
Mr. Farooq, AKA Mr. Steeze, practices in preparation for Ojude Oba 2025.
Remremfoodie, a TikToker, shows us as she got ready for Ojude Oba last year.
Are you attending Ojude Oba 2025?
Tag your crew, save this checklist and tag us on IG @zikokomag—we’ll see you at Ijebu-Ode.
