A Non-Government Organisation, Ebunlobirin Foundation has released a film on the life and times of the third 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 public on Saturday at a ceremony held at Hubert Ogunde Hall inside the premises of June 12 Cultural Centre, Kuto, Abeokuta, the 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 several dignitaries and other guests to watch 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
The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi was represented by his Special Adviser on Strategy and Business Development, Ambassador Abayomi Odeniran; and the Chairperson House of Oodua, Ayaba Hidayat Olubunmi.
A review panel analysed the film and the production, which showcases 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 of the Board of Trustees of Ebunlobirin Foundation, Queen Anuoluwa Okoya explained that the project was embarked upon, following the overwhelming number of women who had been chased out of their matrimonial homes, and came to the office to seek intervention.
She explained: ‘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.
‘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’.
The board chairman explained that that revelation birthed the vision, and the eed to re-orientate, educate and empower, not by preaching alone, but by telling a story, a true, inspiring and life changing story.
Okoya further said: ‘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.
‘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.
‘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’.
She disclosed that, after the review, the film would officially be premiered in September, followed by the 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 emphasised
Ogun State Commissioner of Culture and Tourism, Sesan Fagbayi pointed out that it was a known fact that women are powerful agents of change, which depicts the gathering as historic.
Represented by Tawakalitu Ayoola, the commissioner recalled the role played by the late Iyalode in the history of the ancient town of Abeokuta, and equally commended the organisers of the ceremony and the 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 one, which seeks support and motivate women to have a say in governance
The Osile-Oke Ona commended the foundation for the good work, announcing N10 million 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 said
