On August 7, 2026, a significant cultural and artistic event unfolded in Ibadan as Goldberg Lager inaugurated a monumental talking drum installation. This striking piece of public art was strategically placed atop the iconic Cocoa House, a building that itself embodies a rich narrative of regional progress and identity. The unveiling served as a powerful confluence of two vital threads in the fabric of the Southwest Nigerian story. The talking drum, a venerable instrument deeply ingrained in Yoruba culture, has historically been instrumental in communication, fostering communal celebrations, and preserving narratives through its unique percussive language. Complementing this ancient tradition, Cocoa House, a structure completed in 1965, stands as an enduring testament to indigenous enterprise and ambition. This impressive 26-storey edifice, a pioneering skyscraper in West Africa at the time of its completion, was remarkably financed entirely from the proceeds generated by the region’s lucrative cocoa trade, underscoring a powerful era of self-sufficiency and economic foresight.The momentous occasion drew a diverse assembly of prominent figures, uniting not only the brand’s esteemed ambassadors, including popular actors Kunle Remi and Odunlade Adekola, but also the celebrated Big Brother Naija winner Imisi.
The gathering further included influential creators, respected media personalities, key cultural stakeholders, distinguished government representatives, and a broad spectrum of enthusiastic consumers, all present to witness this symbolic fusion.Abdulrahman Yinusa, the Group Managing Director/CEO of Odu’a Investment, eloquently articulated the profound significance of the talking drum installation, characterizing it as the dawn of a new chapter for a building that has, for over six decades, served as a beacon of the region’s aspirations.
He emphasized that Cocoa House has, for more than sixty years, been the most visible and tangible representation of the forward-thinking vision of the Southwest’s founding fathers – progressive leaders who harbored the bold ambition to forge a formidable indigenous economic empire. This architectural marvel, he noted, has not only endured numerous challenges and witnessed pivotal historical moments but has also remained the steadfast embodiment of their collective aspirations.”We have not simply appended a new structure to the existing edifice,” Yinusa declared, further elaborating on the symbolic depth of the installation. “Instead, we have adorned Cocoa House with a talking drum that resonates with the very essence of our civilization as the Yoruba people. This talking drum transcends mere sound; it possesses a voice. It articulates proverbs, articulates the spectrum of human emotions, heralds the arrival of esteemed royalty, and serves as a constant reminder of our inherent unity as a cohesive community.
From this day forward, both by the light of day and under the cloak of night, it will serve as a perpetual reminder that our culture is not a relic of the past, confined to memory. Rather, it is a vibrant, assertive, and proudly flourishing entity.”For Goldberg, the strategic placement of this distinctive Yoruba symbol atop Cocoa House presents an invaluable opportunity to integrate it into a broader cultural dialogue and to wholeheartedly celebrate a heritage whose influence continues to expand its reach far beyond its origins. Sarah Agha, Marketing Director at Nigerian Breweries Plc, speaking at the unveiling, highlighted the installation’s dual purpose: to honor this rich heritage while simultaneously creating a lasting artistic statement that would transcend the immediate event. “On behalf of Goldberg, we are immensely proud to unveil this talking drum atop one of West Africa’s most revered buildings, and to share this celebratory moment with the people of the Southwest,” she stated. “This is far more than a mere installation; it represents a profound celebration of our shared heritage, our collective cultural pride, and the undeniable power of community.
We are confident that this monument will become an integral part of our enduring shared legacy for many years to come.”For generations, Cocoa House has stood as a potent symbol of ambition, progress, and collective pride. The Goldberg Talking Drum, through its dynamic presence, extends this venerable legacy, serving as a living, breathing celebration of Yoruba heritage.
Hourly, the drum awakens with the distinct rhythms of Omolúàbí, a tradition followed by the melodic chime marking the hour, an elegant homage to the values, the rich culture, and the inherent character that continue to forge an unbreakable bond among the people.According to an official statement released by Goldberg, the installation is also a profound reflection of the Omolúàbí values, which have long been intrinsically linked with Yoruba culture and are a fundamental aspect of Goldberg’s own brand identity. The concept of Omolúàbí encapsulates notions of impeccable character, profound respect, a deep sense of pride in one’s heritage, and a strong sense of responsibility to contribute meaningfully and constructively to the betterment of society.
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