13th December, 2024
By Kazeem Ugbodaga
On a beautiful Thursday afternoon, 12 December, 2024, the Podium Event Centre in Lekki came alive with a kaleidoscope of colours, music, and rich cultural heritage as Tobiloba Zainab, daughter of President Bola Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, celebrated her traditional wedding to Ayodele Olugbenga Oshobajo in a truly unforgettable fashion.
The event, which drew hundreds of well-wishers, was nothing short of opulent, blending the timeless beauty of Yoruba customs with a modern twist.
Guests arrived adorned in vibrant traditional outfits, ranging from regal Aso-Oke fabrics to dazzling Ankara prints, creating a visual feast of culture and style.
As the ceremony began, a troupe of Yoruba cultural performers set the tone with exhilarating drumming, singing, and dancing, whisking everyone into a jubilant atmosphere. The venue buzzed with excitement as friends, family, and dignitaries gathered to witness this milestone moment in the lives of the bride and groom.
Ayodele made a bold statement as he arrived in a grand procession flanked by his equally stylish friends. Dressed in immaculate white traditional attire and a matching cap, he danced with unmatched energy to the beats of trendy Gen Z music. His dramatic moves captivated the audience and added a youthful spark to the otherwise traditional affair.
In keeping with Yoruba tradition, Ayodele humbly prostrated before the bride’s family as a mark of respect and was joyfully welcomed into the fold. The elders blessed him with heartfelt prayers, showering him with wishes of success and happiness in his union with Tobiloba.
All eyes turned to Tobiloba as she made her entrance, a vision of elegance and beauty. Draped in a stunning white outfit adorned with intricate beadwork, her makeup flawlessly highlighted her natural glow. With her friends beside her, she danced into the hall, her every move exuding confidence and joy. The audience erupted in applause as the bride and groom finally met, their chemistry lighting up the room.
The event was graced by prominent personalities, including Yetunde Onanuga, former Deputy Governor of Ogun State and the current Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals and former Deputy Governor of Lagos, Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire. The presence of societal elites added an air of prestige to the already glamorous ceremony.
The hosts, Bayo Onanuga and his wife, Toyin Onanuga, left no stone unturned in making the day special for their guests. From a lavish array of traditional delicacies to premium drinks, every detail was meticulously planned to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience. The joyous atmosphere was further amplified by words of encouragement for the newlyweds.
The ceremony ended on a high note with the couple surrounded by prayers, blessings, and the unwavering support of their families. It was a day of love, unity, and the celebration of heritage—a truly magical experience that will be cherished by all who attended.
From the cultural displays to the emotional moments, Tobiloba and Ayodele’s traditional wedding was a perfect blend of tradition, elegance, and modern flair, marking the beginning of a beautiful new chapter in their lives.
All attention has now shifted to the majestic Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) Trinity Towers, Victoria Island, where the much-anticipated white wedding is set to unfold in all its splendour on Saturday, 14 December, 2024. The celebration will continue with a grand reception at the opulent Queens Park Event Centre, also in Victoria Island, promising a day of glamour, joy, and unforgettable memories.
NOTE: All Photos by Idowu Otegbola
