The vibrant streets of Ikorodu came alive once again for the 34th Ikorodu OGA Day Celebration, a festival that has become the heartbeat of the town’s cultural identity. Among the distinguished personalities present at this year’s grand event was Aarebirin Hon. Princess Dr. Folashade Olabanji-Oba — a dynamic leader, philanthropist, and passionate advocate for community growth — who granted QuickGist Media an exclusive interview during the festivities.
Princess Olabanji-Oba, the Convener of the Grow Ikorodu Initiative and Founder of Shelter of Grace Foundation, described the ongoing celebrations as a “living expression of unity, culture, and shared hope” for the people of Ikorodu and beyond.
“Ikorodu OGA Day is more than an annual celebration; it is a reminder of who we are as a people — resilient, united, and forward-looking,” she said. “This year’s event shows how culture continues to unite generations. The energy, the smiles, and the pride of our people reflect a community that is alive with purpose and faith.”
Celebrating Heritage, Empowering the Future
Princess Olabanji-Oba, who has been a strong voice for youth inclusion and women empowerment in Lagos State, emphasized that the Ikorodu OGA Festival is not just about cultural display, but also about economic growth and social renewal.
“Culture is not static; it evolves with the people. Through festivals like this, we not only celebrate our heritage but also create opportunities for our youths and entrepreneurs. Every local vendor, performer, and artisan here is part of a living economy — this is grassroots development in motion.”
As one of the most respected women leaders in Ikorodu and Lagos at large, Aarebirin noted that community celebrations have the power to build bridges across generations, keeping traditions alive while fostering progress.
“We must continue to inspire our young people to take pride in their roots. When they understand where they come from, they can better shape where they are going,” she added.
Commending the Organizers and the Royal Leadership
The former Executive Vice Chairman of Ikorodu Local Government praised the Ikorodu Oga Development Association (IKODASS) for their consistency, creativity, and vision in managing the festival year after year.
She also extended heartfelt appreciation to His Royal Majesty, Oba (Engr.) Kabir Adewale Shotobi, the Ayangburen of Ikorodu Kingdom, whose leadership, she said, continues to serve as a pillar of unity and progress.
“Our royal father, the Ayangburen of Ikorodu, deserves deep appreciation for his tireless commitment to peace and development. Under his reign, we’ve seen Ikorodu blossom in both culture and infrastructure. He has been a guiding light for our people.”
Ikorodu: A City of Peace, Progress, and Possibilities
Reflecting on her role as Convener of the Grow Ikorodu Initiative, Princess Olabanji-Oba reaffirmed her commitment to building a stronger, more inclusive community through collaboration, innovation, and compassion.
“Ikorodu is a blessed land filled with talented, hardworking people. My mission through Grow Ikorodu and Shelter of Grace Foundation is to ensure no one is left behind. From empowering women and supporting education to promoting creativity and entrepreneurship, we must all play a role in shaping our collective future.”
She called on residents, business owners, and the diaspora community to continue investing in Ikorodu’s development and to support initiatives that drive youth empowerment, education, and cultural tourism.
A Message of Hope and Gratitude
As the festivities continued, Princess Olabanji-Oba took a moment to offer prayers for the people of Ikorodu, the traditional institution, and the organizers of the 2025 OGA Day celebration.
“I pray for continued peace, progress, and prosperity for Ikorodu. May our leaders remain guided, our youths stay inspired, and our community keep flourishing. Together, we will grow Ikorodu and build a future we can all be proud of.”
About Aarebirin Hon. Princess Dr. Folashade Olabanji-Oba
Aarebirin Hon. Princess Dr. Folashade Olabanji-Oba is a trailblazing public servant, entrepreneur, and humanitarian. She is the Convener of Grow Ikorodu Initiative, Founder of Shelter of Grace Foundation, and the immediate past Executive Vice Chairman of Ikorodu Local Government.
She is widely recognized for her advocacy for women empowerment, education, leadership development, and community service — championing numerous projects that uplift lives and strengthen grassroots development in Ikorodu and Lagos State.
