Goldberg Lager Celebrates Yoruba Heritage with Drum Installation in Ibadan
A monumental talking drum has been installed atop Cocoa House in Ibadan to honor Yoruba culture.

Goldberg Lager has made a significant cultural statement by unveiling a monumental talking drum installation on top of Cocoa House in Ibadan, Oyo State. This initiative aims to celebrate Yoruba heritage and cultural identity, marking a fusion of one of the most recognizable symbols of Yoruba culture with a landmark that holds historical significance in the region.
The unveiling ceremony attracted a diverse group of attendees, including cultural stakeholders, government officials, entertainers, and media personalities, all coming together to appreciate this artistic tribute. Cocoa House, which was completed in 1965, is a 26-storey building that was financed through the cocoa trade, making it a key part of the region's economic history. It is also celebrated as West Africa’s first skyscraper, a defining feature of the Ibadan skyline.
As part of the installation, the talking drum will resonate every hour with the rhythm of "Omolúàbí," accompanied by the chime of the hour. This initiative serves as a celebration of values intrinsic to Yoruba culture, such as character, respect, pride in one’s heritage, and social responsibility.
Abdulrahman Yinusa, the Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Odu’a Investment Company Limited, emphasized the importance of this installation, describing it as a new chapter in the history of Cocoa House. He stated, "For over six decades, Cocoa House has been the most visible testament to the vision of our founding fathers; the progressive leaders of the Southwest who dared to build an indigenous economic empire. We have not merely added a structure to the roof; we have crowned Cocoa House with a talking drum of our civilisation as a Yoruba people. The talking drum does not merely make sound. It speaks. It speaks proverbs, conveys emotions, announces the presence of royalty and reminds us of our togetherness as a community."
The installation is part of Goldberg’s broader initiative, “Our Beat. Our Gold.,” which seeks to celebrate various Nigerian cultural expressions and shared experiences through music, food, film, fashion, festivals, and more. Sarah Agha, the Marketing Director of Nigerian Breweries Plc, highlighted the significance of the drum installation, stating, "This is more than an installation; it is a celebration of our heritage, our cultural pride and the power of community. We believe it is a monument that will remain part of our shared legacy for many years to come."
This initiative not only enhances the skyline of Ibadan but also serves as a reminder of the rich cultural tapestry that defines the Yoruba people, reinforcing a sense of community and pride in their heritage.
Sources
- Punch Newspapers Original article