From Ibadan to the World: Goldberg Unveils Iconic Talking Drum Above Cocoa House

In the heart of Ibadan, the city's iconic Cocoa House has stood as evidence of the region's ambition and enterprise for over six decades. The 26-storey building, completed in 1965, was a marvel of indigenous engineering, financed by the proceeds of the region's cocoa trade. Today, a new chapter unfolds as Goldberg Lager unveils a monumental talking drum installation above the Cocoa House, bringing together two pivotal parts of the region's story.

The talking drum is more than just a musical instrument; it's a vessel for Yoruba communication, celebration, and storytelling. Skilled drummers used changes in pitch and rhythm to convey praise, proverbs, announcements, and messages, allowing stories and information to travel across communities. By placing the talking drum above Cocoa House, Goldberg gives an enduring symbol of Yoruba culture a presence that can be seen across the city. This is a tribute to the rhythm of our people, a celebration of the values that continue to unite us.

The installation is also a reflection of the Omolúàbí values that have long been associated with Yoruba culture and form an important part of Goldberg's identity. Omolúàbí speaks to character, respect, pride in one's heritage, and the responsibility to contribute meaningfully to society. These values are reflected in Cocoa House itself; a building that emerged from the success of the region's agricultural economy and stood as an expression of what local enterprise could achieve. The talking drum represents the culture, values, and rhythm that continue to define who we are.

Every hour, the drum comes alive with the rhythm of Omolúàbí, followed by the chime of the hour. This homage to the values, culture, and character that continue to unite our people is a powerful statement about the importance of preserving our heritage. In a world where cultural identity is increasingly threatened, Goldberg's talking drum installation is a beacon of hope, a reminder of the values that have made us who we are today.

As we look to the future, it's clear that this installation will become an iconic landmark in Ibadan, a symbol of the city's rich cultural heritage. But it's also a reminder that our cultural expression is not static; it's a living, breathing entity that continues to evolve and adapt to the changing world around us. Goldberg's talking drum installation is evidence of the power of cultural expression, a celebration of the values that continue to unite us.

For generations, Cocoa House has stood as a symbol of ambition, progress, and pride. Today, the Goldberg Talking Drum extends that legacy as a living celebration of Yoruba heritage. As we look to the future, it's clear that this installation will become an integral part of Ibadan's cultural landscape, a reminder of the city's rich history and cultural identity.

As the drum beats on, it's a reminder that our heritage is not just a relic of the past, but a living, breathing part of our present and future.