A Non-Government Organisation, Ebunlobirin Foundation has released a film on the life and times of late 3rd Iyalode of Egbaland, Chief (Mrs) Bisoye Tejuoso which centred on her philanthropic gestures to the public and empowerment of women.
The preview and review of the film titled, ‘Legacy of Strength’ was made to the public on Saturday at a ceremony held at Hubert Ogunde Hall inside the premises of June 12 Cultural Centre, Kuto, Abeokuta, Ogun State Capital.
The Osile Oke-Ona Egba, Oba Adedapo Tejuoso, the only surviving son of the deceased was in attendance in company of his three queens, as well as other members of the Tejuoso family and Oke-Ona Chiefs to watch the film.
The hall was filled to capacity with number of dignitaries and other guests to be part of the epoch ceremony, in watching the film tagged’, ’A legacy of Strength’, which was the grand preview and review
The Olowu of Owu Kingdom, Oba Saka Matemilola was not left out at the event, as well at the Founder of Penpushing Media, Prince Dimeji Kayode-Adedeji who came to grace the occasion which equally involved cultural performance
Ooni of Ife Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi was represented at the event by Ambassador Abayomi Odeniran, Special Adviser on Strategy and Business Development to the monarch, as well as Ayaba Hidayat Olubunmi, Chairperson House of Oodua
There was review panel to analyse the film and the production, showcase of Yoruba heritage through music and dance, as well as a short theatrical piece reflecting the life and legacy of the late Iyalode, which followed with launch of the film
The Chairman, Board of Trustees, Ebunlobirin Foundation, Quenn Anuoluwa Okoya in her speech explained that the project was embarked on, following overwhelming number of women who had been chased out of their matrimonial homes, who came to the office to seek for intervention.
‘As we investigated further, it became clear that the issue was deeper than domestic conflict. It was cultural, ideological and systemic. We discovered that many of these women had been misled by an unhealthy entitlement mentality, refusing to work, relying solely on their husbands for provisions. Others who were financially successful, showed arrogance, undermining their spouses with pride’, Okoya said
‘At that time, in 2024, the Ebunlobirin Foundation had over 100,000 women as members. This vast network made it clear that the issues we were witnessing were not isolated incidents but part of a broader societal challenge, she added
The board chairman explained that this revelation birthed the vision, hence, need to re-orientate, educate and empower, not by preaching alone, but by telling a story, a true, inspiring and life changing story, thus, the concept of the film was born.
‘Iyalode Bisoye Tejuoso is a tribute to a trailblazing woman, first Nigerian female industrialist, the third Iyalode of Egbaland, and Queen Mother of Karunwi 111. Though, she departed nearly three decades ago, her legacy continues to empower and shape generations of women’,Okoya stated
‘We believe that using her story as a film will serve as a mirror and a map for Nigerian women, reflecting our challenges and guiding our transformation. This film project has taken eight years (2017-2025) to complete’, she stressed
‘We had initially aimed for 2018 release, but faced many unforeseen challenges. By the grace of Almighty God, we stand here today, proud of what has been achieved. We have come here today to share with you the great work we have done, through years of sacrifice, commitment and belief in power of women’
The Chairman, Board of Trustees disclosed that after the review, it will officially be premiered in September, and equally launch the foundation’s three-year studio programme, a weekly show addressing the pressing issues that affect women
‘We aim to empower thousands of women nationwide through this project, including our upcoming Youtube reality shows. This is a bold women empowerment project, I am confident’, she emphasized
The Ogun State Commissioner of Culture and Tourism, Sesan Fagbayi in his remarks pointed out that it was known fact that women are powerful agents of change which depicts the gathering as historic.
The Commissioner represented by Tawakalitu Ayoola recalled the role played by the late third Iyalode of Egbaland in the history of the ancient town, and equally commended the organisers of the ceremony and brain behind the film
He expressed optimism that the production would make a positive impact in the society, adding that Ebunlobirin Foundation has make history in a positive way with film production
The Commissioner added that the present administration in the state is an all-inclusive gender equality-based government, which seeks support and motivate women to have a say in governance
Meanwhile, the Osile-Oke Ona in his remarks commended the foundation for the good work, announcing the sum of N10million, said to be from the entire Tejuoso family to support the project.
‘I am happy to be part of the launch. I appreciate your role in producing the film, using my mother as a role model in the film is commendable. I am very impress’, the traditional ruler emphasized
