Makinde, Ajadi, Adekanmbi celebrate NBHA at 2026 Hair and Body Care Exhibition in Ibadan

The trio, who featured prominently at the event on Thursday, November 5, 2026, at the Tennis Court of Lekan Salami Sports Complex, Adamasingba, Ibadan, pledged support for the association and its members, particularly in promoting entrepreneurship, empowering women, and advancing the beauty and personal care industry.

The First Lady served as the Guest Speaker and Mother of the Day, while Adekanmbi chaired the Event. Ajadi attended as the Special Guest of Honour.

The exhibition, themed “Celebrating Our Culture Through Beauty, Unity and Tradition,” brought together beauty professionals, entrepreneurs, cultural enthusiasts and other stakeholders to showcase traditional and contemporary African beauty practices, celebrate cultural heritage and explore opportunities within the beauty industry.

Speaking at the occasion, the First Lady addressed participants on the importance of preserving cultural identity, promoting unity and recognising the role of traditional beauty practices in sustaining the people’s heritage.

Her participation highlighted the importance of supporting women-led businesses and recognising the contributions of beauticians and hairdressers to entrepreneurship and economic development in Oyo State.

Ajadi, in his remarks, commended the association for organising an exhibition that combines cultural preservation with business development.

The APM senatorial candidate pledged his support for the association, alongside Adekanbi, emphasising the need to encourage small-scale entrepreneurs, particularly women and young people, through initiatives that create economic opportunities and promote self-reliance.

He noted that the beauty and personal care industry has considerable potential to contribute to job creation and economic growth, while encouraging members to sustain their creativity, professionalism and commitment to preserving African cultural heritage.

In her address, the NBHA Oyo State Chapter President, Chief Mrs Toyin Oladapo, described the exhibition as an opportunity to celebrate the people’s identity, traditions and heritage while promoting unity and business development among members.

“Today, we celebrate more than beauty. We celebrate our identity, our culture, our traditions and the heritage that makes us who we are,” Oladapo said.

She explained that traditional hairstyles, adornments, fabrics and beauty practices represent important aspects of African history and creativity.

“As beauticians and hairdressers, we are not only in the business of making people beautiful; we are custodians of a rich cultural heritage that must be preserved and passed on to future generations,” she stated.

The president expressed appreciation to the First Lady for honouring the association’s invitation, describing her presence as a source of encouragement to women working tirelessly to build businesses, create opportunities and contribute to society.

She also acknowledged the association’s founder, Yeye Oba Olubunmi Adesanya (JP), for her vision, sacrifices and dedication to establishing the organisation.