Goldberg Unveils Iconic Talking Drum above Ibadan's Cocoa House
On August 7, 2026, Goldberg Lager unveiled a monumental talking drum installation above the iconic Cocoa House in Ibadan, Nigeria. The 26-storey Cocoa House, completed in 1965, remains a landmark of indigenous enterprise and a testament to the ambition of the region's founding fathers.
A Shared History of Identity and Ambition
The decision to bring the talking drum and Cocoa House together speaks to a shared history of identity, ambition, and cultural expression. The talking drum has long played a significant role in Yoruba communication, celebration, and storytelling, while Cocoa House represents the region's economic success and indigenous enterprise. Abdulrahman Yinusa, Group Managing Director/CEO of Odu'a Investment, described the installation as a new chapter in the story of a building that has represented the region's ambition for over six decades.
The talking drum was not simply an instrument for entertainment; skilled drummers used changes in pitch and rhythm to convey praise, proverbs, announcements, and messages, allowing stories and information to travel across communities. By giving the drum a place above Cocoa House, Goldberg brings that history into a contemporary setting and gives an enduring symbol of Yoruba culture a presence that can be seen across the city.
A Celebration of Yoruba Heritage
Goldberg's "Our Beat. Our Gold." platform draws from the same sense of cultural pride. The idea recognizes the rhythms and shared experiences that continue to bring Nigerians together, whether through music, football, food, film, festivals, weddings, or everyday occasions that give communities a reason to gather and celebrate. The installation is also a reflection of the Omoluabi values that have long been associated with Yoruba culture and form an important part of Goldberg's identity.
Speaking at the unveiling, Sarah Agha, Marketing Director of Nigerian Breweries Plc, said the installation was designed to celebrate that heritage while creating something that could endure beyond the occasion itself. "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," she said. "This is more than an installation; it is a celebration of our heritage, our cultural pride, and the power of community."
A Monument to Yoruba Culture
The installation is expected to remain a prominent feature of the Cocoa House skyline, giving residents and visitors a new perspective on the city's rich cultural heritage. Goldberg ambassadors Kunle Remi and Odunlade Adekola, Big Brother Naija winner Imisi, creators, media personalities, cultural stakeholders, government representatives, and consumers all gathered for the unveiling, reflecting the wider interest in the installation and its significance to the city. As Abdulrahman Yinusa noted, the talking drum does not merely make sound; it speaks proverbs, conveys emotions, announces the presence of royalty, and reminds us of our togetherness as a community.
Source: Pulse.ng
