Seaman’s Schnapps reaffirms cultural commitment

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Seaman’s Schnapps has restated its commitment to preserving Yoruba cultural heritage following its participation in the 2026 World Egungun Festival held at the Liberty Stadium, Ibadan, Oyo State.

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According to a statement, the company said its presence at the festival reflected its longstanding support for traditional practices and ancestral rites associated with Yoruba culture.

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The event attracted about 18,000 worshippers, tourists, and cultural enthusiasts, with more than 150 Egungun masquerades and 120 cultural groups participating from across Nigeria and the diaspora.

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Traditional rulers, chiefs, and custodians of culture led sacred rites during the festival, while representatives of Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde; the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja; and the President-General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes, Sulaiman Ajewole, attended the event.

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The organisers said the festival continued to gain international recognition and support for UNESCO cultural heritage status.

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Speaking on the company’s participation, the Marketing Manager of Seaman’s Schnapps, Gbemileke Lawal, said the brand remained committed to preserving Yoruba traditions.

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“Our presence at the World Egungun Festival reflects our dedication to preserving Yoruba traditions. Seaman’s Schnapps is more than a drink; it represents respect, gratitude, and continuity across generations,” Lawal said.

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The company said Seaman’s Schnapps played a prominent role during libation rites performed in honour of ancestors, which form a major aspect of Yoruba spirituality and cultural expression.

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The festival also featured masquerade displays, drumming, dance performances, and traditional games, including the Ayo-Olopon competition sponsored by the brand.

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Senior Brand Manager, Nnenna Uche-Onyenacho, said the company would continue to support cultural values and community traditions.

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“Every pour of Seaman’s Schnapps honours the past and inspires the future. We are proud to stand with communities in celebrating the timeless values that define our culture,” Uche-Onyenacho said.

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British Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, Simon Field, also commended the festival for promoting cultural understanding and social cohesion.

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According to the organisers, cultural exchanges between Nigeria and the United Kingdom continue to strengthen mutual appreciation for heritage and traditions.

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As part of activities at the festival, Seaman’s Schnapps presented symbolic bottles to cultural leaders and sponsored competitions for outstanding masquerade performances.

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Egungun Saki won the Most Colourful category, while Egungun Ibadan Parapo emerged winner of the Most Spectacular Performance category. Egungun Eko from Amuwo Odofin also received the Most Creative award.

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The winners received traditional prizes sponsored by Seaman’s Schnapps.

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