On August 7, 2026, Goldberg Lager unveiled a monumental talking drum installation above Cocoa House in Ibadan, merging Yoruba cultural heritage with one of Nigeria's most historic landmarks. The installation, which sits atop the 26-storey building, was revealed during a ceremony that brought together cultural stakeholders, government representatives, and consumers.
A Symbol of Yoruba Heritage and Enterprise
Cocoa House, completed in 1965, was financed from proceeds of the region's cocoa trade and is widely recognized as West Africa's first skyscraper. The talking drum, a key element of Yoruba communication and storytelling, has been placed on the roof to create a visual marker visible across the city. According to the unveiling event, the drum comes alive every hour with the rhythm of Omolúàbí, followed by the chime of the hour, paying homage to Yoruba values.
The installation reflects the Omolúàbí values of character, respect, and pride in heritage, which are also embodied in Cocoa House's history as a symbol of indigenous enterprise. Abdulrahman Yinusa, Group Managing Director/CEO of Odu'a Investment, described the drum as a new chapter for the building. "For over six decades, Cocoa House has been the most visible testament to the vision of our founding fathers - the progressive leaders of the Southwest who dared to build an indigenous economic empire," he said. "We have not merely added a structure to the roof; we have crowned Cocoa House with a talking drum of our civilisation as a Yoruba people."
Cultural Significance and Contemporary Recognition
The talking drum has historically been used by skilled drummers to convey praise, proverbs, and messages, allowing stories to travel across communities. By placing it above Cocoa House, the installation brings this tradition into a contemporary setting. Yinusa added, "The talking drum does not merely make sound. It speaks. It speaks proverbs, conveys emotions, announces the presence of royalty and reminds us of our togetherness as a community."
Goldberg's "Our Beat. Our Gold." platform, which celebrates shared Nigerian experiences through music, football, food, and festivals, is central to the installation. Sarah Agha, Marketing Director of Nigerian Breweries Plc, said, "We are very proud to unveil the talking drum on one of West Africa's most iconic buildings on behalf of Goldberg, and to celebrate this moment with the people of the Southwest. This is more than an installation; it is a celebration of our heritage, our cultural pride and the power of community."
Event Highlights and Public Engagement
The unveiling featured Goldberg ambassadors Kunle Remi and Odunlade Adekola, Big Brother Naija winner Imisi, creators, and media personalities. Guests traveled from Lagos to Ibadan for the occasion, reflecting the installation's wider appeal. The drum is expected to remain a prominent feature of the Cocoa House skyline, providing residents and visitors with a new visual marker in a city known for its history.
This initiative is part of Goldberg's broader effort to celebrate Nigerian cultural expressions and their global reach. As Nigerian music, Nollywood, and fashion gain international audiences, the installation places a distinct Yoruba symbol within that conversation. The talking drum now stands as a lasting tribute to the culture and ambition that define the region.
