Through this Choir Festival, Otunba Daniel is living up to his title—not just as a leader in name, but in deed, leading with heart, humility, and harmony
Otunba Gbenga Daniel to Host Over 800 Choristers in Choir Festival, Champions Youth Morality Through Music
…announces staggering ₦30 million prize pool
In what is shaping up to be the largest choral gathering in Nigeria in recent times, former Ogun State Governor and Asiwaju of Remo Christians, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, is set to host over 800 choristers at the 2025 edition of The Asiwaju of Remo Christians Choir Festival.
The spiritually themed contest—widely hailed as a beacon of moral and youth development—will take place on Sunday, July 6, at the architecturally renowned Abraham Tabernacle in Sagamu, Ogun State.
Now in its fourth edition, the annual festival continues to grow in ambition and impact, drawing not only massive local participation but also interest from across Africa. This year’s event boasts a significant leap in scope, with nine competing choirs of 33 members each and 25 observing choirs of 21 members each, selected through rigorous auditions.
While interests were received from South Africa, Zambia, and other African countries, logistical limitations and sponsorship gaps prevented international participation. Organisers, however, said that efforts are underway to ensure broader international inclusion in future editions.
“This is more than just a choir contest,” said Dr. Opeyemi Asaolu, a member of the festival’s governing board. “It’s a national movement—a bold effort to inspire youth excellence, rebuild morality, and promote unity through music. We’re not just singing; we’re shaping the future.”
Dr. Asaolu further announced a staggering ₦30 million prize pool, triple the amount from the previous year. The breakdown includes:
- ₦5 million for the overall winner
- ₦3.5 million for the second-place choir
- ₦2.5 million for the third
- Additional prizes ranging from ₦1 million to ₦500,000 for choirs up to the ninth position
In line with Otunba Daniel’s ethos of encouragement and inclusivity, each of the 21 observing choirs will receive ₦500,000.
Legacy and Leadership by Example
The Abraham Tabernacle venue—an imposing ecumenical edifice built by Daniel in honour of his late father—is not just a stage for the competition but a symbol of legacy. Daniel personally supervised venue upgrades, including a redesigned altar and expanded seating arrangements to accommodate over 1,000 expected guests.
“I started out as a choir boy and pianist,” Daniel said during a press briefing yesterday—the first ever held for the festival. “That early training in discipline and harmony shaped my life. Today, I’m using that foundation to inspire the next generation.”
Now, as the second holder of the revered title Asiwaju of Remo Christians—succeeding the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo—Daniel views the festival as both a calling and a responsibility.
“The world has changed. Once discouraged careers like music, sports, and acting are now global goldmines. Through this festival, we’re guiding youth toward purpose, discipline, and morality in a creative and relevant way,” Daniel stated.
He added, “Music tourism has vast potential. Our best choirs can represent Nigeria internationally, and we’re creating platforms that make that dream possible.”
Corporate Backing and Media Innovation
This year, the festival has attracted more sponsors and partners, with a specially curated cocktail event planned for sponsors on the eve of the competition. Visibility for sponsors is also being enhanced, as the event features cutting-edge camera setups—including robotic cameras—for broad media coverage. A central broadcasting facility is also in place to make footage accessible post-event.
“We’re aiming for longevity and scale,” added Dr. Asaolu. “This vision requires consistent support from both public and private sectors. We invite more sponsors to be part of this transformative journey.”
Other notable members of the festival’s governing board include Ms. Lilian Imoni, Dr. Adeola Badru, and Mr. Seun Owoaje.
As preparations enter the final stretch, the excitement is palpable across Ogun State and beyond. For many, the festival is more than a music competition—it is a call to collective awakening, a celebration of talent, and a revival of values often lost in modern society.
Through this initiative, Otunba Gbenga Daniel is living up to his title—not just as a leader in name, but in deed: leading with heart, humility, and harmony.
