In this special edition of the Ranks Africa Spotlight Series, we sat down with one of the most celebrated figures of Ojude Oba 2024 and 2025—the radiant Princess Adesile.
Known not only for her regal presence at the festival but also for her powerful voice in business and culture, Princess Adesile continues to shape the narrative of tradition in modern times. As the founder of Desile Lagos and a fierce advocate for heritage-led innovation, she represents the perfect harmony between elegance, purpose, and enterprise.
In this exclusive interview, she opens up about what Ojude Oba means to her, the deeper inspiration behind her iconic appearances, how she built a brand that spans continents, and her vision for a future where Yoruba culture isn’t just preserved—but globally revered.
Prepare to be inspired by a woman who doesn’t just wear royalty—she redefines it.
- Ojude Oba has become synonymous with elegance and cultural pride — what does the festival mean to you personally?
For me, Ojude Oba is more than a festival, it’s a living, breathing expression of who we are as Ijebu people. It’s our history, and our pride. Personally, it’s a sacred time to honour my roots, my royal lineage, and the strength of those who came before me. It reminds me that heritage isn’t just something we inherit, it’s something we carry and evolve with purpose.
- You’ve been celebrated as one of the iconic faces of Ojude Oba two years in a row. How do you prepare for the festival, and what inspires your stunning presence?
First, I’m truly humbled by the recognition; it’s not something I take lightly. My preparation goes beyond fashion; it’s really intentional. Every element of my appearance, from my outfit to riding into the pavilion. I’m inspired by the idea that when I ride, I carry not just my family’s name but the aspirations of countless young women watching, believing they can do this too.
- Beyond culture, you are a businesswoman with enterprises both in Nigeria and abroad. Can you share a bit about your business journey and what drives your success?
Absolutely. My journey in business has been defined by boldness, learning, and service. I’ve built a fashion brand called Desile Lagos and I also have over ventures that bridge tradition and innovation. What drives me is impact. Whether I’m mentoring young entrepreneurs or collaborating on global partnerships, I’m always asking: how does this serve others? That clarity keeps me grounded and resilient.
- How do you balance cultural advocacy with entrepreneurship — and what advice would you give young women looking to walk a similar path?
It starts with authenticity. I don’t see culture and entrepreneurship as separate worlds; for me, they’re intertwined. Culture gives my business its soul, and entrepreneurship gives my culture a global voice. My advice to young women is: be audacious about your identity. You don’t need to choose between tradition and ambition. Wear both. Lead with excellence. And remember, legacy is not about being perfect, it’s about being purposeful.
- Looking ahead, what are your hopes for the future of Ojude Oba and the visibility of Yoruba culture on the global stage?
I want the world to experience Yoruba culture not as a relic, but as a renaissance; dynamic, regal, and globally relevant. My hope is for Ojude Oba to become an international cultural summit, attracting scholars, creatives, and leaders from all over the world. I also hope to see more women riding, more young people owning their heritage, and more platforms that spotlight our voices. The world is watching, and it’s time we take up space; boldly, beautifully, and unapologetically.
Read here above Princess Adesile Royalty in Motion, Culture in Action
As Princess Adesile continues to bridge tradition and innovation, we at Ranks Africa look forward to seeing her create even more meaningful impact—across culture, fashion, entrepreneurship, and global representation.
Her journey is proof that heritage is not just about the past, but about shaping the future. With her unwavering commitment to culture and excellence, we’re confident that she’ll remain a powerful force in both Nigeria and the world at large.
The story continues—and we’ll be watching proudly.
