Isese Day 2025 in the Foremost Awori Land, Ado-Odo

The ancient city of Ado-Odo, the foremost and unconquered Awori land, came alive on August 20, 2025, as traditional worshippers, cultural custodians, and dignitaries gathered to celebrate Isese Day with grandeur and pride.

The celebration showcased the rich cultural heritage of the Awori people, with diverse groups such as Ofe, Olomi Tutu, Igunnuko, Olorisa, Itepa-Ilu, Egungun, and many others displaying their unique traditions and performances.

The Olofin of Ado-Odo Kingdom played host to this historic celebration alongside the Aro of Ado-Odo, Chief Quadri Gafar Iseki, and HRH, the Elere of Ere Land, Oba Jimoh Akinola, warmly welcoming participants and guests from far and near.

In his royal remarks, the Olofin of Ado-Odo Kingdom expressed delight at the colourful cultural displays. He specially thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Dapo Abiodun, and the Deputy Governor of Ogun State for recognizing August 20 as Isese Day. He also commended other state governors—particularly in Lagos and Osun—for declaring the day, while urging more states to follow suit in honour of this important cultural heritage.

Looking ahead, the Olofin assured that next year’s Isese Day celebration will be even more colourful and will be broadcast live worldwide, enabling people across the globe to experience the beauty of Awori culture.

In his prayers, the Olofin invoked blessings upon Governor Dapo Abiodun and prayed for God’s chosen leader for Ogun State in 2027—a leader who will have Ado-Odo, Ogun West, and Ogun State at heart.

He also offered special prayers for all sons and daughters of Ado-Odo, both at home and in the diaspora, with heartfelt mention of:

• Alhaji Kamordeen Olawale Yusuf, Personal Assistant (Special Duties) to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria

• Dr. Sulaimon Lateef

• Hon. Musefiu Olatunji, Chairman, Appropriation Committee, Ogun State House of Assembly

• Prince Nasir Ramon

• Dr. Olayode Olayinka, Chairman, Ado-Odo Progressive in US & Canada

• Mr. Saubana Olaofe, Chairman, Ado-Odo Progressive UK

• And all indigenes of Ado-Odo and Awori land worldwide

The 2025 Isese Day celebration in Ado-Odo stood as a beacon of unity, tradition, and cultural pride, reaffirming the enduring strength of Awori heritage for generations to come.